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Advancement and Recognition Policies and Procedures

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Purpose

This edition of Advancement and Recognition Policies and Procedures supersedes all previous editions and replaces the Advancement Committee Policies and Procedures book. The material in this book contains current policies, procedures, and other information relating to advancement and recognition. Previous editions and printings should be discarded.

The Council Youth Development Committee
Setting Council Goals Planning a Yearly Calendar and Budget Recruiting and Training Youth Development Committee Members Record Keeping Promoting Advancement and Youth Development Eagle Scout/Silver Award Recognition Dinner Promoting Advancement in Camp and Other Venues Maintaining a Merit Badge Counselor Database

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The District Youth Development Committee
Setting Advancement Goals Helping Units Establish Advancement Programs Recruiting and Training Merit Badge Counselors Getting Started Qualifications of Counselors Training for Merit Badge Counselors Merit Badge Counselor Orientation How to Maintain a Current List of Merit Badge Counselors Merit Badge Counselors for Troops, Teams, and Crews The District’s Role in Advancement to Eagle Scout How to Identify Program Resources

Advancement for Youth Members With Disabilities
Denial of Time Extensions for Eagle Candidates Registered as Special Needs Scouts Advancement for Cub Scouts With Disabilities Advancement for Boy Scouts With Disabilities Alternate Requirements Through First Class Rank Guidelines for Alternate Requirements

Advancement is the process by which youth members of the Boy Scouts of America progress from rank to rank in the Scouting program and is how a youth grows. Advancement is simply a means to an end, not an end in itself. Everything done to advance and earn these ranks, from joining until leaving the program, should be designed to help the young person have an exciting and meaningful experience. Education and fun are functions of the Scouting movement and form the basis of the advancement program. A fundamental principle of advancement in Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, and Venturing is the growth a young person achieves as a result of the youth member’s participation in the unit program.

Personal growth is the prime consideration in the Advancement program. Scouting skills—what a young person learns to do—are important, but they are not the most important aspect of advancement. Scouting’s concern is the total, well-rounded growth of the youth. This growth may be measured by how youth members live the Scouting ideals and how they do their part in their daily lives. Learning by doing. A Cub Scout, Boy Scout, or Venturer may read about fire building or good citizenship. A youth member may hear it discussed, and watch others in action, but the youth member has not learned first aid until the youth member has done it. Each youth progresses at his or her own rate. Advancement is not a competition among individuals; it is an expression of their interest and participation in Scouting. Young people must be encouraged to advance steadily and set their own goals with guidance from their parents, guardians, or leaders. Just because a group of young people join at the same time does not mean everyone will earn the same awards at the same time. Let all members advance at their own pace.

Advancement Principles
Council and district advancement committees implement procedures that help achieve the following advancement principles.

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A badge is recognition of what a young person is able to do, not merely a reward for what he or she has done. The badge is proof of certain abilities. It is not just a reward for the completion of a task. Advancement encourages Scouting ideals. Scouting teaches young people how to care for themselves and help others. Advancement should reflect the desire to live the Cub Scout, Boy Scout, or Venturing Oaths in every member’s daily life.

Varsity Scouting
The Varsity Scout requirements for rank advancement are the same as for Boy Scouts. However, the advancement program is supervised by a youth member called an advancement program manager, who is assisted by an adult on the team committee.

Venturing
A male Venturer who has achieved the First Class rank as a Boy Scout in a troop or as a Varsity Scout in a team may continue working toward the Eagle Scout rank while a Venturer until his 18th birthday. The Venturing Bronze, Gold, Silver, Ranger, Quest, and TRUST Awards may be earned by all Venturers who meet certain requirements. Details on Venturing advancement can be found in the Venturer/Ranger Handbook, Venturing Leader Manual, Quest Handbook, and TRUST Handbook.

Unauthorized Requirement Changes
No council, district, unit, or individual has the authority to add to or subtract from advancement requirements. (For policies concerning youth members with disabilities, see the chapter called “Advancement in the Unit.”)

Sea Scouting

Advancement in the Four Scouting Program Phases
Advancement is only one of the methods used to achieve the aims of Scouting in the four phases of the Scouting program—Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, and Venturing. The aims of Scouting are character building, citizenship training, physical fitness, and mental fitness.

A male Sea Scout who has achieved the First Class rank as a Boy Scout in a troop or as a Varsity Scout in a team may continue working toward the Eagle Scout rank as a Sea Scout until his 18th birthday. The Sea Scout can work on the Apprentice, Ordinary, Able, and the Quartermaster awards as long as he or she is a registered youth member in Sea Scouting. Details of the requirements for these awards can be found in the Sea Scout Manual.

Cub Scouting
The Cub Scout program in the den and pack is the basis for Cub Scout advancement. The steps in Tiger Cub, Cub Scout, and Webelos Scout advancement procedures are preparation, qualification, and recognition. Cub Scouting has the following ranks: Bobcat, Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light. The requirements to reach each rank are authorized by the National Executive Board and set forth in the Tiger Cub Handbook, Wolf Handbook, Bear Handbook, and Webelos Handbook.

Bestowing Posthumous Awards
If a Cub Scout, Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or Venturer has met all of the requirements for a rank, including age and service requirements, before the youth member’s death, this individual may receive an award posthumously. If the youth member met all of the requirements but a board of review had not yet been conducted, the review by the council youth development committee can be conducted posthumously. Application should be made to the council youth development committee within six months after the young person’s death. The application may be made only by the unit committee chair or the unit leader.

Boy Scouting
The Boy Scout requirements for rank are the basis for a Boy Scout’s advancement. There are four steps in Boy Scout advancement: learning, testing, reviewing, and recognition. Boy Scouting has the following ranks: Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle. The requirements for each rank are those authorized by the National Executive Board and set forth in the Boy Scout Handbook and the current Boy Scout Requirements book. 4

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The Council Youth Development Committee

The council youth development committee’s purpose is to implement throughout the council the policies and procedures contained in this handbook. This purpose is accomplished by providing training, promoting advancement, and supervising those involved in the advancement process. A strong and consistent advancement program in the council requires cooperation between the council and district advancement committees, the commissioner staff, and the units they serve. The council youth development committee is primarily a supervisory group that guides the district committees. The committee’s responsibilities are to supervise the advancement program in all units and to guide the district youth development advancement committees in their work with each unit. The specific duties are as follows. • Promote advancement in units by working with district advancement committees and through council publications and activities. • Set council goals.

• Establish procedures within the framework of national BSA policy. • Plan a yearly advancement calendar and committee budget. • Review procedures for record keeping. • Recruit and train council and district youth development committee members. • Determine procedures for Boy Scout resident camp advancement. • Approve merit badge counselors and maintain and publish council and/or district merit badge counselor lists. • Serve as an appeals board for district boards of review and conduct posthumous boards of review. • Recommend candidates for national awards. • Present special council awards. The procedures for presenting special council awards are outlined in the chapter “Special Recognitions,” under “District and Council Awards.”

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Setting Council Goals
To measure the quality of the council youth development program, the committee should establish council youth development goals as part of the Quality Award. These goals should be set with input from the districts and units. Meaningful advancement goals cannot be set without keeping accurate records, which are the only measure of advancement. Records of the advancement progress of each unit should be obtained from the unit’s advancement reports and its latest charter renewal applications. It is highly recommended for all units to use the Internet Advancement software, which accepts input from outside vendor software such as Troopmaster.

To monitor advancement goals, the council youth development committee should establish a system to follow up on how effectively unit advancement goals are being met.

Planning a Yearly Calendar and Budget
Calendar. The council youth development committee should establish and maintain a calendar of training programs and special events designed to improve and stimulate advancement. Training may include formal or informal sessions for district committee members, merit badge counselors, and unit leaders.

Recruiting and Training Youth Development Committee Members
One of the most important responsibilities of a council youth development committee is to help recruit and train new advancement committee members for the council and district levels. The council youth development committee should include executive board members, the district youth development committee chairs, and members at large. School administrators, personnel directors, and business executives are among those who have the type of background that would be of value to council and district youth development committees. Also consider individuals who have been recognized with Scouting’s highest honors, such as the Eagle Scout and Venturer Silver ranks. The council may have a National Eagle Scout Association committee as a subcommittee of the youth development committee. Updated lists of NESA members may be obtained from your local council as needed. NESA members who are qualified can be a resource in serving on youth development committees as merit badge counselors, and in providing other types of assistance. Youth development committees should encourage the formation of Alpha Phi Omega chapters in local colleges in the council. These young people of college age are another good resource for council and district youth development committees. Council youth development committee meetings provide an excellent opportunity for informal training to enhance the formal training committee members receive. The training that a district advancement chair receives at a council committee meeting can be the basis for training district committee members at district meetings.

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The committee should also schedule special advancement events or shows. Special councilwide events are valuable in improving advancement. They include events featuring Cub Scout, Boy Scout, and Venturing advancement skills, merit badge clinics, advancement challenges, and yearly Eagle Scout/Silver Award recognition dinners. Committee budget. The committee is responsible for preparing a budget request for approval by the council executive board. This budget request should include funds for the Eagle Scout/Silver Award recognition dinner, advancement events, audiovisual materials, conference expenses, and advancement forms. Some councils also provide recognition certificates and help subsidize the expense of the Eagle Scout and Silver Award badges. The committee budget request is included in the annual council budget. Many councils poll their communities to identify adults who have attained the Eagle Scout and Venturer Silver ranks, and ask these individuals to participate in Scouting leadership.

It is best that this form be submitted promptly so that unit records remain current and youth can receive their awards quickly after earning them. Awards cannot be purchased or awarded until the Advancement Report has been filed with the council office. The council youth development committee periodically reviews the procedures used by units in applying for badges and other awards and in keeping records of advancement. These procedures must be as simple as possible. The goal should be to eliminate obstacles so that a youth member may receive the badge earned without delay. Many councils have adopted a procedure of filing unit advancement reports in a current separate folder or by using computer spreadsheets. Each year, reports for the year are transferred to a unit history folder. Whatever system is used for record keeping, the awarding of badges to youth members should never be delayed. A council compiles a monthly District Advancement Report Summary. This information, provided to the district each month, gives a clear picture of advancement progress in each unit. District reports are summarized annually and included on the Application for Renewal of the Local Council Charter, which every council submits each year to the national office. The advancement statistics reported on the Application for Renewal of the Local Council Charter are important. These statistics help the national advancement committee monitor the interests and activities of youth members.

Record Keeping
Record keeping and the distribution of awards are the responsibility of the council service center. However, each unit is responsible for keeping its own records and for making reports of advancements to the council. This is done on the unit Advancement Report form. One copy is kept by the unit and two copies are sent to the council service center with an order for the necessary badges and awards. At the council service center, one copy of the Advancement Report is placed in the unit file, and the other is given to the district executive for the district records. Use of Internet Advancement software helps the unit keep accurate records and saves time. This software allows the unit to produce the Advancement Report and keep a perpetual database on each member and the unit.

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Promoting Advancement and Youth Development
The council youth development committee can make contacts with local media (radio, television, newspaper, and popular youth Web sites) to recognize young people who earn awards, or to give special attention to outstanding achievements. Special civic, business, and retail contacts can be made on a council level that could expedite recruiting counselors and consultants, as well as provide opportunities for youth to learn special skills. This must not preempt the district committee responsibilities, but rather enhance and provide the district committee and units with resources that would not otherwise be available to them.

The procedures for recommending candidates for national awards are outlined in “District and Council Awards,” in the “Special Recognitions” chapter.

Promoting Advancement in Camp and Other Venues
Make sure the program at camps and other venues encompasses Cub Scout, Boy Scout, and Venturing procedures for advancement. The procedures should be established in writing by the council youth development committee, in cooperation with the camp director or program director prior to the beginning of camp. (See the complete section titled “Advancement at Camp,” found in the chapter called “Advancement in the Unit.”)

Eagle Scout/Silver Award Recognition Dinner
Among the many ways to promote advancement within the council is to provide an annual recognition dinner for all young people who attained the Eagle Scout rank, Venturer Silver Award, Ranger Award, or Quartermaster Award during the previous year. This dinner serves as recognition to these young men and women and focuses the community’s attention on Scouting. Distinguished speakers can be engaged, participating dinner sponsors can give plant tours, council service centers can be visited, and many other ideas can be integrated into the program. This can be a council program highlight, with excellent media coverage and personal contact between the youth members and business, civic, and government leaders.

Maintaining a Merit Badge Counselor Database
The council youth development committee is responsible for approving merit badge counselor applications and maintaining a current, accurate merit badge counselor list. This committee reviews the district merit badge list at least once a year, and the council service center publishes it. The list should include the counselor’s name, address, and telephone numbers. It should be mailed to every unit leader and commissioner, as well as printed in the council bulletin. (See the chapter “Advancement in the Unit,” under “Merit Badges.”)

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The District Youth Development Committee

The function of the district youth development and recognition committee is to motivate and train unit leaders and unit committee members in the advancement program. This should be done under the direction of the council youth development committee and with the cooperation of the commissioner staff and the district training committee. The district youth development committee also should work closely with the district executive. Other responsibilities of the district youth development and recognition committee are as follows. • Set district advancement goals and maintain accurate monthly unit advancement reports to determine where help is needed. • Help units establish an active advancement program. • Recruit, train, and thank merit badge counselors. • Maintain an accurate, current list of council-approved merit badge counselors. • Assemble a resource list of all awards and promote awards on a regular basis.

• Provide assistance in Eagle Scout advancement, including Eagle Scout boards of review. • Provide recognition to district Scouters. • Provide program resources, advancement training, and direct support for all units in the district. • Understand and follow council established advancement procedures (i.e., boards of review). • Offer district advancement events. To help recruit and orient new district youth development committee members, use The District Committee Training Workshop. This resource provides basic training for all district committee members. This resource contains a two-hour breakout session just for advancement committee members. Be sure the committee has persons familiar with Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, Venturing, and Sea Scouting.

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Setting Advancement Goals
The district youth development committee should encourage all packs, troops, teams, and crews to set practical advancement goals at charter renewal time. By knowing the unit’s goals, the committee can set advancement goals for the district. Committee members will need to know (1) the number of youth members advancing each year in each unit; (2) the number of units meeting their goal in rank advancement; (3) the number of merit badges earned; and (4) the number of Venturing awards earned in each unit. This is important for all units because advancement is one way youths grow. The committee should make up progress charts showing advancement in the district and display them at district committee meetings, at roundtables, and at commissioner staff meetings. Publish an honor roll of units reporting advancement in the district or council bulletin, or both. Publicly recognize units and unit leaders who do well in advancement. In analyzing advancement in a district, the trainer committee should divide the units into three groups—those with good advancement records, those with some advancement, and those with no advancement. The district youth development committee should concentrate first on the last group—units reporting no advancement. Make an appointment with the unit committee chair and the unit leader and show them how to use advancement for a better program. Keep the unit commissioner informed. The unit commissioner is an important person in helping the unit develop a good advancement program.

• Emphasizing the importance of each Cub Scout earning the appropriate rank for his age. • Stressing the importance of regular advancement reports from the pack to the council service center. Promote the use of Internet Advancement. • Promoting prompt and meaningful ceremonies for the awarding of badges to the boys. • Encouraging the Cub Scout pack to participate in council or district advancement programs, including roundtable meetings. • Encouraging achievement of the Arrow of Light Award and the involvement of troop leadership in Arrow of Light dinners and crossover ceremonies. Effective with the 2010 program year, promote the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide, which includes the den meeting plans. This resource was designed for use in conjunction with the youth handbooks. By following the prescribed den meeting plans as written, Cub Scouts will fulfill the requirements necessary to earn the badge of rank by early spring. In Boy Scout troops, advancement responsibilities typically include: • Helping unit commissioners and trainers explain advancement procedures to new troops. • Visiting boards of review of troops with a poor advancement history. Meet with the Scoutmasters and the troop committee to review each Scout’s advancement progress and to review the four steps of advancement. • Helping the troop identify parents, committee members, and other qualified individuals to serve as merit badge counselors by using the Troop/Team Resource Survey and the Parent and Family Talent Survey. The district’s merit badge counselor list will supplement the troop’s list. • Emphasizing the objectives of new Scouts earning the First Class rank during their first year and that of other Scouts earning at least one rank advancement each year. • Stressing the importance of scheduling monthly boards of review, and recommending at least four courts of honor for the members of the troop every year. • Stressing the importance of monthly advancement reports from the troop to the council service center.

Helping Units Establish Advancement Programs
In Cub Scout packs, advancement responsibilities typically include: • Helping unit commissioners and trainers explain advancement procedures to new packs. • Visiting the pack leaders’ meeting at least once a year to review the Cub Scout advancement plan, using the “Introductory Guide for Tiger Cub Adult Partners” in the Tiger Cub Handbook and the parents’ guide in the Wolf Handbook, Bear Handbook, or Webelos Handbook.

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• Helping the Scoutmaster organize an advancement plan for when the troop attends Boy Scout resident camp. • Encouraging the troop to participate in a council or district advancement event such as a merit badge show, Scoutorama, Eagle Scout recognition dinner, a First Class Scout recognition, First Class to Eagle Challenge, or roundtable meetings. In Varsity Scout teams, advancement responsibilities typically include: • Helping unit commissioners and trainers explain advancement procedures to new Varsity Scout teams. • Visiting boards of review of teams with poor advancement history. Meet with the Coach, advancement program manager, and team committees to review each Scout’s advancement progress and to review the four steps of advancement. • Helping the team identify parents, committee members, and other qualified individuals to serve as merit badge counselors by using the Troop Resource Survey and the Parent and Family Talent Survey. The district’s merit badge counselor list will supplement the team’s list. • Emphasizing the objective of at least one rank advancement, or Eagle Palm, for every Varsity Scout in the team each year. • Stressing the importance of scheduling monthly boards of review, and recommending at least four courts of honor for the members of the team every year. • Stressing the importance of monthly advancement reports from the team to the council service center. • Encouraging the team to participate in a council or a district advancement program such as a merit badge show, Scoutorama, or Eagle Scout recognition dinner. In Venturing crews, advancement responsibilities typically include: • Ensuring that commissioners and trainers are aware of advancement procedures for new crews. • Helping the crew identify consultants to assist with the Bronze, Gold, Silver, Ranger, Quest, and TRUST requirements. • Emphasizing the objective of having all Venturers earn the Bronze Award within their first year. • Helping the crew Advisor organize and promote a crew advancement plan.

• Recognizing achievement in a meaningful and visible way. • Encouraging crews to conduct crew boards of review for Gold and Silver Awards with the board consisting of youth and adults and led by the crew president. • Assisting crews that have Eagle boards of review. • Encouraging the crew to participate in a council or district advancement program such as a Silver Award recognition dinner. • Assisting crews and their Venturers who need to identify dens, packs, and troops to help them achieve their “teach others” requirements.

Recruiting and Training Merit Badge Counselors
The essence of quality Scouting is having sufficient qualified adult leaders. Nowhere does this become more apparent than in the recruitment of adults to serve as merit badge counselors. Because counselors must be knowledgeable in specialized areas as well as able to have a good rapport with boys under 18, the district youth development committee has a challenging task in recruiting, training, and maintaining merit badge counselors, and in helping units to do the same. All counselors must have an understanding of their role in advancement. The district youth development committee makes the appropriate counseling material available to the counselors and provides the essential training and orientation sessions to counselors recruited by units and districts.

Getting Started
Step 1: Begin by using the “Worksheet for Building a Merit Badge Counselor List,” noting the badges required for the Eagle Scout Award since they obviously are “musts.” Step 2: List the merit badges most popular in the district or council, referring to copies of the past few council charter renewals. List the subjects that will require few counselors in the district or council; perhaps counselors for these merit badges can be shared with a neighboring district, or a counselor can be requested at the council level to service all districts. Troops, teams, and crews should provide as many counselors as they can.

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Step 3: Merit badges are grouped into logical fields of activity. The district youth development committee should appoint a lead counselor for each group. The lead counselor recruits individual counselors, using knowledge of his or her field and suggestions of qualified candidates obtained from the district youth development committee. As the district or council youth development committee works down the list in choosing lead counselors, record the names of prospective counselors for specific subjects. The Merit Badge Counselor and the Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, and/or Venturer. The merit badge plan is based on the concept that a Scout works with an adult knowledgeable in one or more fields, an experience invaluable to a young man. The counselor introduces the Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, and/or Venturer to subjects that may lead to a career choice or to a lifetime hobby. Merit Badges for Eagle Palms. Any merit badges beyond those used to earn the Eagle Scout Award, and earned before or after a Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, and/or Venturer earns the Eagle Scout Award, may be applied toward requirement 4 for Eagle Palms. Merit Badge Counselor Recruitment. Setting up a district/council list of merit badge counselors may seem at first like a staggering responsibility, considering that more than a hundred merit badges are offered. But it is not so difficult if the task is approached logically and maintained on a regular basis. A Guide for Merit Badge Counseling is used to obtain names of prospective counselors at parents’ meetings and from schools and universities, service clubs, religious institutions, government agencies, industries, armed services, and chartered organizations. Pay special attention to areas within a district or council where qualified counselors are scarce.

Qualifications of Counselors
Persons serving as merit badge counselors must be registered as a merit badge counselor with the Boy Scouts of America. They must be men and women of good character, age 18 or older, and recognized as having the skills and education in the subjects for which they are to serve as merit badge counselors, as well as having the ability to work with Scout–age boys. Register merit badge counselors by using the basic adult registration form. All merit badge counselors must be approved by the council youth development committee. Merit badge counselors are not required to pay a fee if they are registered only as merit badge counselors. There is no restriction or limit on the number of merit badges an individual may be approved to counsel for, but the counselor must be approved by the committee for each specific merit badge. There is also no limit on the number of merit badges a youth may earn from one counselor. In addition, an approved merit badge counselor may counsel any youth member, including his or her own son, ward, or relative. Venturers who are age 18 or older make excellent counselors.

Training for Merit Badge Counselors
All merit badge counselors must be trained in the aims of Boy Scouting, in advancement procedures, and must take BSA Youth Protection training. The district or council youth development committee should train counselors, either as a group or individually. A lead counselor is in an excellent position to coach those who have been recruited, beginning with a conference. This is perhaps the most effective training a counselor can receive.

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If a formal course can be arranged through letters and phone calls from lead counselors, the dividends are great. The counselors in each subject group will have much in common despite their different backgrounds, and they will enjoy meeting each other and discussing mutual interests and problems. They also will enjoy meeting professional and volunteer Scouters with whom they will be associated. A Guide for Merit Badge Counseling is a valuable booklet for all counselors and should be made available to them by the district or council youth development committee.
“Merit Badge Counselor Orientation,” a unit of training, is available for training merit badge counselors. It can be used for a one-on-one session with a new counselor or adapted to a group session. If desired, the orientation also can be conducted as a part of other Boy Scout training.

The district or council list of counselors should be reproduced for distribution to troops, teams, and crews. When changes are made, these should be sent promptly to the units (or listed in the council bulletin/Web site) so that all units have readily available the names, addresses, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers of counselors. Lists are updated at least once a year, usually when councils and districts reregister. With computer capabilities, these merit badge counselor lists can easily be maintained and updated so that units can use current information. Merit badge counselors are registered with the local council using position code 42. As with all council members, their registration must be renewed annually. All merit badge counselors must be approved by the council. Merit Badge Counselor Retention. As part of the local council charter renewal process, the council youth development committee sends a letter to existing merit badge counselors who are to continue for another year. This provides the council an opportunity, at least annually, to assure that their merit badge counselor lists are updated. This also is an excellent opportunity to not reregister those persons identified as not following the policies and procedures of the Boy Scouts of America or providing the services as promised. Here are some suggested items to mention in the letter. • Thank volunteers for serving. • Tell them it’s time to reregister. • List the merit badges for which they are approved to serve as a counselor. • Ask if they wish to continue. • Provide a contact name in the district or council if they need help. Enclose a response card or form for these volunteers to use.

How to Maintain a Current List of Merit Badge Counselors
The district or council youth development committee’s responsibility does not end with the recruitment and training of merit badge counselors. The district or council youth development committee (or one member selected to oversee counselors) will follow through to be sure that the merit badge counselors are working effectively and that Boy Scouts seeking merit badges are finding the help they need. The committee will give on-the-job coaching if a counselor is not doing well, and will be alert for signs of difficulty that might be mentioned by unit commissioners, Scoutmasters, Varsity Scout Coaches, Advisors, parents, or unit committee members. District youth development committee members should attend district roundtables, forums, and huddles to update the list of merit badge counselors and to receive feedback.

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Merit Badge Counselors for Troops, Teams, and Crews
As a practical approach to providing merit badge counselors, troop, team, and crew committees may establish their own lists of counselors, if necessary, at least for the required and more popular merit badges. The Troop Resource Survey, available from the council service center, can be used to identify parents and others in the neighborhood who can serve as merit badge counselors. All merit badge counselors—even those who serve only one unit—must be approved by the council and district youth development committee, and counselors must register as a merit badge counselor (see “Qualifications of Counselors” earlier in this chapter). However, it is essential that a district have the most complete list of merit badge counselors that is possible. Thus, troops, teams, and crews should be encouraged to share lists of counselors willing to assist districtwide or councilwide.

The procedures for presenting recognition to district Scouters—the District Award of Merit—are explained in the chapter “Special Recognitions.”

How to Identify Program Resources
District youth development committees can help units with advancement by offering physical facilities and expertise in various fields not commonly available or difficult for unit leadership to secure. District youth development committees can identify resources available in the community that relate to the principal avenues of advancement for use by the units. For example: • Citizenship—government officials, teachers • Communications—Toastmasters Clubs, teachers, newspaper reporters, radio and television personnel • Community living—local government officials, community service agencies, historical societies, social service groups • Conservation and environment—teachers; government departments of conservation, environment, wildlife, and natural resources; related societies; meteorologists; pollution-control agencies • First aid—rescue squads, Red Cross, National Safety Council, utility company personnel, fire departments, police departments District youth development committees should encourage roundtable, huddle, and forums commissioners to regularly include advancement programs at the monthly district roundtable, huddles, and forums. Requirements in each step of the Venturing advancement program require Venturers to take their newly acquired skills and knowledge back to Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. Venturing provides an excellent advancement program resource to dens, packs, and troops.

The District’s Role in Advancement to Eagle Scout
At the discretion of the council youth development committee, the district youth development committee is particularly attentive to advancement from Life Scout rank to Eagle Scout rank. The committee has three specific responsibilities: • Review and approve service project ideas submitted by Eagle Scout candidates. (See “Service Projects” for the Eagle Scout rank in the chapter “Advancement in the Unit.”) • Participate in unit boards of review for Eagle Scout candidates or conduct district-level boards of review. (See “Eagle Scout Boards of Review” in the chapter “Advancement in the Unit.”) • Consider and act on appeals from the unit level for Eagle Scout applications and Eagle Scout boards of review. (See “Appealing a Decision” in the chapter “Advancement in the Unit.”)

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Advancement Rules and Regulations

Article IX. Policies and Definitions —Charter and Bylaws
Section 1. Declaration of Religious Principle, Clause 1
The Boy Scouts of America maintains that no member can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God. In the first part of the Scout Oath or Promise the member declares, “On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law.” The recognition of God as the ruling and leading power in the universe and the grateful acknowledgment of His favors and blessings are necessary to the best type of citizenship and are wholesome precepts in the education of the growing members. No matter what the religious faith of the members may be, this fundamental need of good citizenship should be kept before them. The Boy Scouts of America, therefore, recognizes the religious element in the training of the member, but it is absolutely nonsectarian in its attitude toward that religious training. Its policy is that the home and the organization or group with which the member is connected shall give definite attention to religious life.

Section 1. Activities, Clause 2
The activities of the members of the Boy Scouts of America shall be carried on under conditions which show respect to the convictions of others in matters of custom and religion, as required by the 12th point of the Scout Law, reading, “Reverent. A Scout is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties. He respects the beliefs of others.”

Section 1. Freedom, Clause 3
In no case where a unit is connected with a church or other distinctively religious organization shall members of other denominations or faith be required, because of their membership in the unit, to take part in or to observe a religious ceremony distinctly unique to that organization or church.

Section 1. Leaders, Clause 4
Only persons willing to subscribe to these declarations of principles shall be entitled to certificates of leadership in carrying out the Scouting program.

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Article X. Program (Advancement) —Rules and Regulations
Section 1. General Principles, Clause 1
Education is the chief function of the Scouting movement and it shall be the basis of the advancement program. A fundamental principle of advancement shall be that the youth’s progress is a natural outcome of his activities in his unit. The rank requirements in these phases of the Scouting program, as set forth in the official publications, shall furnish the basis of the activities of the unit. a. In Cub Scouting, recognition is earned in the home and the neighborhood by passing certain achievements related to simple skills, habits, ideals, and hobbies. b. In Boy Scouting, recognition is gained through leadership in the troop, attending and participating in its activities, living the ideals of Scouting, and proficiency in activities related to outdoor life, useful skills, and career exploration. c. In Varsity Scouting, recognition is gained through leadership in the team, attending and participating in its activities, living the ideals of Varsity Scouting, and proficiency in activities related to outdoor life, useful skills, and career exploration. d. In Venturing, recognition takes on a wider scope, involving the assumption of adultlike roles, outdoor and other hobby interests, identification with adults, and participation in community and citizenship responsibilities.

Section 1. Cub Scout Advancement, Clause 4. Ranks
There shall be the following ranks in Cub Scouting: Bobcat, Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, and Arrow of Light. The requirements shall be as authorized by the Executive Board and set forth in official Cub Scout publications.

Section 1. Boy Scout Advancement, Clause 5. Basis for Advancement
The Boy Scout requirements for ranks shall be the basis for the Scout’s advancement. There shall be four steps in Boy Scout advancement procedure: learning, testing, reviewing, and recognition.

Section 1. Boy Scout Advancement, Clause 6. Ranks
There shall be the following ranks in Boy Scouting: Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle. The requirements shall be those authorized by the Executive Board and set forth in official Scouting publications. Eagle Palms may also be awarded on the basis of requirements authorized by the executive Board and set forth in official Scouting publications.

Section 1. Boy Scout Advancement, Clause 7. Responsibility of the Troop Committee
It shall be the responsibility of the troop committee, under the leadership and guidance of the local council, to make sure that the program of the troop is conducted in such a way that Scouts have an opportunity to advance on the basis of the four steps outlined in clause 5.

Section 1. Administration, Clause 2
All advancement procedures shall be administered under conditions that harmonize with the aims and purposes of the Boy Scouts of America.

Section 1. Cub Scout Advancement, Clause 3. Basis for Advancement
The Cub Scout advancement program shall be the basis for the Cub Scout’s advancement. There shall be three steps in Tiger Cub, Cub Scout, and Webelos Scout advancement procedures: preparation, qualification, and recognition.

Section 1. Varsity Scout Advancement, Clause 9. Responsibility of the Team Committee
It shall be the responsibility of the team committee, under the leadership and guidance of the local council, to make sure that the program of the team is conducted in such a way that Varsity Scouts have an opportunity to advance on the basis of the four steps outlined in clause 5.

b. Upon the recommendation of the Corporation, authority may be granted annually for the above privileges to Scout camps or camps conducted by authorized representatives of the Boy Scouts of America that submit evidence of maintaining the program standards, provided their programs have been approved by the Corporation. No exception shall be made to the time requirements to qualify for rank advancement or for the award of Eagle Palms.

Section 1. Venturing Recognition, Clause 10. Basis of Advancement
a. The Venturing advancement program shall be the basis for the Venturer’s advancement. There shall be four steps in Venturing advancement procedures: preparation, learning, qualification, and recognition. b. A male Venturer who has achieved the First Class rank as a Boy Scout in a troop or as a Varsity Scout in a team may continue working toward the Eagle Award while a Venturer until his 18th birthday. There is no Venturing advancement route to qualify for the Eagle Award.

Section 1. Responsibility for Merit Badges, Clause 13
The responsibility for merit badges shall rest with the merit badge counselor approved by the local council and district advancement committee. Merit badge counselors shall be registered adult members of the Boy Scouts of America. The merit badge counselor shall prepare and qualify youth members. There shall be no board of review procedure for merit badges, but public recognition may be given at a unit court of honor or other suitable occasion.

Section 1. Venturing Recognition, Clause 11. Ranks
a. There shall be awards and ranks in Venturing and Sea Scouts BSA, the requirements for which shall be approved by the Executive Board as proposed by the Venturing Committee and set forth in Sea Scouting and Venturing publications.

Article XI. Business, Finance, Properties, Contracts, Registration (Registration) —Rules and Regulations
Section 3. Special Types of Registration, Clause 20. Mentally Retarded or Severely Physically Handicapped Youth Members
In the discretion of the [National] Executive Board, and under such rules and regulations as it may prescribe upon consultation with appropriate medical authorities, registration of boys who are either mentally retarded or severely physically handicapped, including the blind, deaf, and emotionally disturbed, over age 11 as Cub Scouts and over age 18 as Boy Scouts, or Varsity Scouts, and registration of young adults who are either mentally retarded or severely physically handicapped, including the blind, deaf, and emotionally disturbed, over age 21 as Venturers, and the participation of each in the respective advancement programs while registered, is authorized.

Clause 12. Examination in Camps
a. In special instances, where Scouts are attending educational or similar institutions and/or camps which give an intensive Scouting program, said institutions and camps may, upon application, be authorized by the Corporation to give the prescribed examinations and pass Scouts in such manner and with such special conditions as the facts presented (as to the facilities and leadership of the institution or camp) may, in the judgment of the Corporation, warrant.

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Advancement in the Unit

One of the major avenues of achievement in Scouting is advancing from rank to rank. To advance, a youth member fulfills specific requirements, usually including active participation, skill achievement, service to others, and leadership experience.

Webelos Scout. The rank for boys who have completed third grade (or are 10 years old). Arrow of Light. For fifth-graders (or 10-year-olds). Earned after completion of the Webelos Scout badge, usually after the first year of the Webelos Scout program.

Cub Scout Advancement
Cub Scouting is both den- and home-centered. Advancement involves both den leader and parental approval. These are the six ranks in Cub Scouting. Bobcat. The Bobcat badge is earned prior to all other ranks. If a boy joins Cub Scouting as a Wolf, Bear, or Webelos Scout, he must earn the Bobcat badge before receiving any other award or rank. Tiger Cub. The rank for boys who have completed kindergarten (or are 7 years old). Wolf. The rank for boys who have completed first grade (or are 8 years old). Bear. The rank for boys who have completed second grade (or are 9 years old).

Den & Pack Resource Guide —New for 2010
The Den & Pack Resource Guide becomes effective with the 2010 program year. This resource includes core den meeting plans (two den meetings per month) designed for use in conjunction with the youth handbooks. By following the prescribed den meeting plans as written, Cub Scouts will fulfill the requirements necessary to earn the badges of rank by early spring.

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Bobcat Requirements. No matter what age or grade a boy joins Cub Scouting, he must earn Bobcat badge before he can be awarded the rank of Tiger Cub, Wolf, Bear, or Webelos Scout. This rank involves learning the Cub Scout Promise, the Law of the Pack, and some signs and symbols of Cub Scouting. His den leader determines when the boy has mastered them. Tiger Cub Requirements. When a boy is in the first grade, he works on the Tiger Cub badge with his adult partner. To begin his path to the Tiger Cub rank, the Tiger Cub must first earn the Tiger Cub Immediate Recognition Emblem by learning the Cub Scout motto, the Cub Scout sign, and the Cub Scout salute. When he has accomplished these tasks, he may begin working on the 15 achievement requirements to earn Tiger Cub rank. These simple requirements, to be completed with the adult partners, include a family activity, den activity, and Go See It (den outing) in five achievement areas. The den leader and adult partner approve the completion of each requirement by signing the boy’s handbook. For each of these 15 achievements, the boy earns a bead to add to his Tiger Cub Immediate Recognition Emblem— white for family activities, orange for den activities, and black for Go See It activities. When the Tiger Cub has completed the 15 achievement requirements, he receives his Tiger Cub badge in a ceremony during a monthly pack meeting. After earning the Tiger Cub badge, the boy is encouraged to work on the numerous elective activities in his book. There are many elective projects aimed at sparking a Tiger Cub’s interest in a new hobby, activity, or skill. When he completes 10 electives, he earns a Tiger Track bead that is worn on the Tiger Cub Immediate Recognition Emblem, a pocket totem. There is no limit to the number of Tiger Track beads that a boy may earn; however, each Tiger Track bead must represent the completion of 10 elective projects. All requirements for both the Tiger Cub achievements and electives are found in the Tiger Cub Handbook. Wolf Requirements. When a boy is in the second grade, he starts work on the 12 achievements for the Wolf rank as soon as he has earned his Bobcat rank. These achievements involve knowledge of the national flag, his religious duties, physical skills, and other simple skills geared to his interests. The den leader and a parent or an adult family member should approve his work and sign his book, signifying completion of the requirements.

When the Cub Scout has completed the 12 achievements, he receives the Wolf badge in a ceremony during a monthly pack meeting. The boy may then work on any of the 23 fields, called electives, until he completes second grade (or is 9). Electives mostly cover hobby and sports interests. Each of these electives is divided into projects. For the first 10 projects, a boy is awarded a Gold Arrow Point, to be worn on his uniform below his Wolf badge. For the next 10 projects completed, he receives a Silver Arrow Point, to be worn below the gold one. Additional Silver Arrow Points may be earned for each 10 projects. All requirements and electives for Wolf Cub Scouts can be found in the Wolf Handbook. Bear Requirements. When the boy is in the third grade or 9 (or as soon as he completes the Bobcat requirements if he joins at this age), he begins work toward the Bear rank. When he has completed 12 of the 24 achievements and has been awarded the Bear badge, he may work on the 25 electives in the Bear Handbook to earn Arrow Points as he did for Wolf. These Arrow Points are worn below his Bear badge. In addition, he may earn elective credits by completing requirements for the 12 achievements not used to earn the Bear badge. As with the Wolf rank, completion of the requirements is approved by the den leader and/or the boy’s parents. All requirements for both the Bear achievements and electives are found in the Bear Handbook. Webelos Scout Requirements. While working toward the Webelos Scout rank and the Arrow of Light Award, the boy also may earn any or all of the 20 activity badges that range from Aquanaut and Sportsman to Geologist and Forester. The Webelos den leader approves the boy’s work or assigns someone else to approve it. This is an important step in the boy’s transition to a Boy Scout troop, and the transition should take place during an impressive ceremony. The Webelos badge and Arrow of Light requirements include all of the joining requirements for the Scout badge. All requirements for the Webelos badge, Arrow of Light Award, and activity badges are found in the Webelos Handbook.

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Cub Scout Advancement Goals
The administration of the Cub Scout advancement program is primarily the responsibility of the pack committee, with the support of the district youth development committee and commissioner staff. • Parents of Cub Scouts should understand their role and responsibilities in their son’s advancement. For the boy to receive maximum benefit and growth from his advancement, the adult’s standard for completion of any requirement should be based on the Cub Scout motto, “Do Your Best.” • Advancement recognition should be given as soon as possible after a boy completes the requirements, and be done with proper ceremony. Presentation of badges should be a part of each monthly pack meeting. Suggestions for advancement ceremonies are contained in the Den & Pack Meeting Resource Guide, Webelos Leader Guide, Cub Scout Ceremonies for Dens and Packs, and the Cub Scout Leader Book. • Packs and troops should be encouraged to work together to ensure a smooth transition from the Webelos den to the Boy Scout troop. • Good advancement records should be maintained by the pack to help ensure that boys are advancing and that awards are presented promptly. • The use of den chiefs (Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, or Venturers who assist with Cub Scout and Webelos Scout den meetings) can help stimulate advancement through example and experience, as well as encourage boys to continue in the Scouting program. • Recognize packs in the district that advance well.

Positions of Responsibility
Each time a Boy Scout is elected or appointed to a position of responsibility, the Scout must be given his position description and responsibilities. If a Scout has been unreliable or ineffective in the position, the Scout should be counseled and removed, if necessary. For advancement requirements, serving in a position of leadership means that if the Boy Scout is elected or appointed to a position, such as patrol leader, and serves in that position for the required time, they have satisfactorily completed that requirement. This does not necessarily mean that the youth will pass his board of review, because if his service was not satisfactory, the youth could be denied at the board of review. Remember, if the Scout served in the position for two months that is two months fulfilled toward completing the requirement. Also, if the Scoutmaster removes a Scout from a position of responsibility, he must notify the Scout. Putting this in writing is preferable, though not required. When a badge and certificate are awarded to a Boy Scout to recognize that he has achieved a rank, they represent that a young man has: • Been an active participant in his troop and patrol. (See “Definition of ‘Active’ ” later in this chapter.) • Demonstrated living the Scout Oath (Promise) and Law” in his daily life. • Met the other requirements and/or earned the merit badges for the rank. • Participated in a Scoutmaster conference. • Satisfactorily appeared before a board of review. In the advanced ranks (Star, Life, and Eagle), the badge represents that the young man has also: • Served in a position of responsibility in the troop. • Performed service to others.

Boy Scout Advancement
Advancement is built around the three aims of Scouting: citizenship, growth in moral strength and character, and mental and physical development. The Boy Scout advancement program is designed to provide the Boy Scout with a chance to achieve the aims of Scouting while learning new skills, having fun, and growing in confidence and self-reliance. No council, district, unit, or individual has the authority to add to or subtract from any advancement requirement. A Boy Scout badge recognizes what a young man is able to do; it is not a reward for what he has done.

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Definition of “Active”
A Scout will be considered “active” in his unit if he is 1. Registered in his unit (registration fees are current) 2. Not dismissed from his unit for disciplinary reasons 3. Engaged by his unit leadership on a regular basis (informed of unit activities through Scoutmaster conference or personal contact, etc.) 4. In communication with the unit leader on a quarterly basis

1. The Boy Scout learns. A Scout learns by doing. As he learns, he grows in ability to do his part as a member of the patrol and the troop. As he develops knowledge and skill, he is asked to teach others; and in this way he begins to develop leadership. 2. The Boy Scout is tested. A Scout may be tested on rank requirements by his patrol leader, Scoutmaster, assistant Scoutmaster, a troop committee member, or a member of his troop. The Scoutmaster maintains a list of those qualified to give tests and to pass candidates. The Scout’s merit badge counselor teaches and tests on the requirements for merit badges. 3. The Boy Scout is reviewed. After a Scout has completed all requirements for a rank, he has a board of review. For Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle Palms, the review is conducted by members of the troop committee. The Eagle Scout board of review is conducted in accordance with local council procedures. 4. The Boy Scout is recognized. When the board of review has certified a boy’s advancement, he deserves to receive recognition as soon as possible. This should be done at a ceremony at the next troop meeting. The certificate for his new rank may be presented later at a formal court of honor.

(Units may not create their own definition of active; this is a national standard.)
If the Scout does not initiate communication, the unit leader is to contact the Scout and ask if the youth wishes to remain in Scouting. If the answer is negative, then the unit leader should no longer communicate with the Scout. If the answer is affirmative, the unit leader should provide the unit calendar. After six months of nonparticipation, the unit leader may cease to contact with the youth and drop the Scout from the unit at recharter time. The Scout may return to the unit at any time while on the unit charter. At any time a Scout is dropped from a charter, the youth may re-apply to a unit for readmission; the acceptance of the application is at the discretion of the unit. The youth would be reinstated at the rank and level that can be documented by either the Scout or the unit.

Boy Scout Advancement Age Requirements
Boy Scout awards are for young men not yet 18 years old. Merit badges, badges of rank, and Eagle Palms are for registered Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, or qualified Venturers. Any registered Boy Scout or Varsity Scout may earn these awards until his 18th birthday. Any Venturer who achieves the First Class rank as a Boy Scout or Varsity Scout in a troop or team may continue working for the Star, Life, and Eagle Scout ranks and Eagle Palms while registered as a Venturer, up to his 18th birthday. Youth members with disabilities who are severely mentally or physically handicapped may work toward rank advancement after they are 18. (See the chapter “Advancement for Youth Members With Disabilities.”) This does not include others with learning disabilities, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD), etc., but only those who are severely mentally or physically handicapped. If you have a question on whether a youth qualifies for this exemption, please contact the national Youth Development Team at 972-580-2189 or youth.development@scouting.org. It is better to ask beforehand than be denied an Eagle application later.

Four Steps of Boy Scout Advancement
A Boy Scout advances from Tenderfoot to Eagle by doing things with his patrol and his troop, with his leaders, and on his own. It’s easy for him to advance if the following four opportunities are provided for him.

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Troop Advancement Goals
The unit leader must be in charge of advancement in the unit. It is necessary that the Scoutmaster understand the purpose of the advancement program and the importance it has in the development of the Scouts in the troop. The troop’s program must provide advancement opportunities. By participating in the troop program, the Scout will meet requirements for rank advancement. The troop’s unit commissioner and the district youth development committee that oversees advancement support can play an important part in explaining advancement and helping the Scoutmaster utilize the advancement program in the troop program, making it exciting to the Scouts in the troop. It is important that the troop committee and the Scoutmaster set an advancement goal for the year as part of the Quality Award. A basic goal should be for each Scout to advance a rank during the year. New Scouts should earn the First Class rank during their first year in the troop. By doing so, these new Scouts have a greater probability of staying in Scouting for many more years. When the troop leadership—which includes both adult and youth leaders—emphasizes the importance of advancement, the youths and their parents will catch the spirit. Advancement should be a troop philosophy and part of the troop’s culture. Troops should conduct boards of review for Scouts who are not advancing. That board should be encouraging and developmental. A minimum of four formal courts of honor a year (one every three months) should be held to formally recognize the Scouts in the troop. Presentation of merit badges and rank badges should not await these courts of honor; awards and badges should be presented at the next meeting after they have been earned. Scouts are recognized again at a formal court of honor.

A good conference should be unhurried. It helps the Scout evaluate his accomplishments and set new goals with his Scoutmaster. This can be accomplished at a troop meeting, camping trip, or in the Scout’s home. Goal setting by the Scout makes it possible for the Scoutmaster to help the Scout with his weaknesses and encourage him to use his strengths. The Scout (joining) conference is probably one of the most important associations the Scout will have in his Scouting career. It is at this conference that the Scoutmaster illustrates to him the adult-youth relationship that is unique to Scouting. All through the ranks, it is rewarding for the Scoutmaster to observe the Scout grow in responsibility and maturity. It is through this association and example that a young man grows and matures, and the Scoutmaster conference helps accomplishes that aim. (See the Scoutmaster Handbook, chapter 10.) A requirement for advancement is that the Scout participates in a Scoutmaster conference, not that he “passes” the conference. When advancement is going to be deferred, the Scout should not come to the Scoutmaster conference thinking that everything is OK and then be surprised that his advancement is deferred. He should have had plenty of warning and guidance prior to the Scoutmaster conference. This is not a time to shut the door on advancement, but rather to work with the Scout to create goals that will allow him to succeed. However, even after a negative Scoutmaster conference for the ranks of Tenderfoot to Life, if the Scout desires a board of review, he should be granted his request.

Record Keeping
Each unit is responsible for keeping its own records and reporting advancement to the local council service center. This is done on an advancement report form. One copy is kept by the troop and two are sent to the council with an order for badges and awards. It is best that this form be submitted at least monthly so that troop records remain current and Scouts are able to receive their awards quickly after earning them. Awards cannot be purchased or presented until the advancement report has been filed with the council office. A Troop/Team Record Book, to be maintained by the troop scribe, is available.

Scoutmaster Conferences
One of the most enjoyable experiences of being a Scoutmaster is the opportunity for a Scout and his leader to sit down and visit together. In large troops, Scoutmasters occasionally assign this responsibility to assistant Scoutmasters or members of the troop committee. This is unfortunate, because most Scoutmasters feel that this is truly the opportunity to get to know the Scout and help him chart his course in life.

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Some councils require computer-generated advancement reports through BSA Internet Advancement. If so, two copies of the computer-generated report must be submitted to the council service center. Any authorized vendor advancement software (such as Troopmaster) that is compatible with BSA Internet Advancement may be used to generate the advancement report form. Electronic record keeping and reporting is good for accuracy, speed, and record keeping. Unit training resources, such as Boy Scout Advancement, are available for instruction through your local council in how to carry out the advancement program.

A merit badge cannot be taken away once it has been earned, provided the counselor is a registered counselor for the merit badge.

Group Instruction of Merit Badges
The question arises as to whether it is permissible to have Scouts earn merit badges in groups. Many subjects may be presented to groups of Scouts without defeating one of the purposes of the merit badge plan—working closely with a qualified adult. The National Executive Board has approved this policy statement on merit badge counseling: “To the fullest extent possible, the merit badge counseling relationship is a counselor-Scout arrangement in which the boy is not only judged on his performance of the requirements, but receives maximum benefit from the knowledge, skill, character, and personal interest of his counselor. Group instruction and orientation are encouraged where special facilities and expert personnel make this most practical, or when Scouts are dependent on only a few counselors for assistance. However, this group experience should be followed by attention to each individual candidate’s projects and his ability to fulfill all requirements.” In the end, the Scout must be reviewed individually by the counselor to ensure completion of the badge’s requirements. In harmony with this policy, a troop or team may use merit badge counselors in unit meetings. The merit badge counselor can make a presentation covering the highlights of a merit badge subject. Scouts should then be given an opportunity to try some skill related to the badge. This introduction to a merit badge can spark an interest in the subject.

Scout Buddy System
The Scout sets up his first appointment with the counselor. The counselor should explain the requirements to the Scout. The Scout and his buddy then meet as appropriate with the counselor until the Scout completes the badge’s requirements. These guidelines apply whenever a Scout meets with his merit badge counselor. • A Scout must have a buddy with him at each meeting with a merit badge counselor. • A Scout’s buddy can be another Scout, a parent or guardian, a brother or sister, or a relative or friend. • From his Scoutmaster, the Scout obtains a signed merit badge application and the name of the appropriate merit badge counselor. A Scout may earn any merit badge at anytime. However, a few merit badges may have certain restrictions.

The Merit Badge System
Earning merit badges gives a Scout the kind of self-confidence that comes from overcoming obstacles to achieve a goal. Through the merit badge program, a Scout also learns career skills, grows confidence, develops socially, and may develop physical skills and hobbies that encourage healthful recreation for life. The steps to follow in the merit badge program are outlined in the current Boy Scout Requirements book. This book lists the requirements a Scout meets to earn each of the more than 100 merit badges that are available. Scouts must be tested individually, and they must meet all the requirements. No additional requirements may be added.

Service Projects
Second Class Rank. For the Second Class rank, a Scout must participate in a service project or projects approved by his Scoutmaster. The time of service must be a minimum of one hour. This project prepares a Scout for the more involved service projects he must perform for the Star, Life, and Eagle Scout ranks. Star and Life Ranks. For Star and Life ranks, a Scout must perform six hours of service to others. This may be done as an individual project or as a member of a patrol or troop project. Star and Life service projects may be approved for Scouts assisting on Eagle Scout leadership service projects. The Scoutmaster approves the project before it is started.

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Eagle Scout Leadership Service Projects. For a service project to qualify as an Eagle Scout leadership service project, the Scout, while a Life Scout, must plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project benefiting any religious institution, school, or community. These projects, of course, must conform to the wishes and regulations of those for whom the project is undertaken. The Eagle Scout leadership service project provides the opportunity for the Eagle Scout candidate to demonstrate the leadership skills he has learned in Scouting. He does the project outside the sphere of Scouting. As a demonstration of leadership, the Scout must plan the work, organize the personnel needed, and direct the project to its completion. Eagle Scout leadership service projects should be about service to others. Here are guidelines to follow. (See the Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook.) • An Eagle Scout project involving council property or other BSA activities is not acceptable. • An Eagle Scout project may not be performed for a business or an individual. • There is no minimum number of hours required, but the amount of time must be sufficient for the Scout to clearly demonstrate planning, organization and leadership skills. • The project is an individual matter; therefore, two Eagle Scout candidates may not receive credit for working on the same project. • There is no requirement that an Eagle Scout service project have lasting value. • An Eagle Scout project may not be of a commercial nature. • An Eagle Scout project may not be a fund-raiser. • Fund-raising is permitted only for securing materials needed to carry out the project. • Donors to Eagle Scout projects must be made aware of what entity is benefiting from the project, and that it clearly is not the Boy Scouts of America. Substantiation of tax deductibility, if any, for donations is the responsibility of the entity benefiting from the project. • Any funds raised for an Eagle Scout project that are not used for the purchase of project materials must be returned to the donor. Routine labor, a job or service normally rendered, should not be considered. There is no minimum number of hours that must be spent on carrying out the project. The amount of time spent must be sufficient for the Scout to clearly demonstrate leadership skills.

The most current Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook must be used to meet this requirement. The youth must secure the prior approval of his unit leader, a committee from the unit that is composed of a minimum of three members and a maximum of six members (21 years of age or older), and the benefactor of the project. The project must also be reviewed and approved by the district or council youth development committee or their designee to make sure that it meets the stated standards for Eagle Scout service projects before the project is started. This preapproval of the project does not mean that the board of review will approve the way the project was carried out. Upon completion of the project, the Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook, available on www.scouting.org, is properly filled out and submitted with the Eagle Scout Rank Application. The Workbook must include the following information. 1. Describe the project. 2. Explain how the project was of benefit to others. 3. Tell who from the group that benefitted from the project gave guidance. 4. Tell who helped carry out the project. 5. List the materials used and tell how they were acquired. Although the project idea must be approved before work is begun, the board of review must determine the manner in which the project was carried out. Questions that must be addressed include: 1. Did the candidate demonstrate leadership of others? 2. Did he indeed direct the project rather than do all of the work himself? 3. Was the project of value to the religious institution, school, or community group? 4. Who from the group benefiting from the project may be contacted to verify the value of the project? 5. Did the project follow the approved plan or were modifications needed to bring it to its completion? 6. Was all the work on the project done while the candidate was a Life Scout and before his 18th birthday (unless a time extension has been allowed)? (See “Time Extensions” later in this chapter.) For other extension options, see the text box called “Age Limitations for Eagle Scouts” under “Boards of Review” later in this chapter.

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The Eagle Scout service project is an individual matter; therefore, two Eagle Scout candidates may not receive credit for working on the same project. The variety of service projects performed throughout the nation by Scouts earning their Eagle Award is staggering. For ideas and opportunities regarding service projects, the Scout can consult people such as school administrators, religious leaders, local government department directors, or a United Way agency’s personnel. The district or council youth development committee also can be helpful by identifying possible projects.

Boards of Review for Tenderfoot Through Life Scout Ranks and Eagle Palms
A periodic review of the progress of a Scout is vital in the evaluation of the effectiveness of the Scouting program in the unit. The unit committee can judge how well the Scout being reviewed is benefiting from the program. The unit leader can measure the effectiveness of his or her leadership. The Scout can sense that he is, or is not, advancing properly and can be encouraged to make the most of his Scouting experience. When a Scout has completed all requirements for a rank advancement, including the Scoutmaster conference, he may not be denied a board of review. Not only is it important to review those Scouts who have learned and been tested for a rank, but also to review those Scouts who have shown no progress in their advancement over the past few months. The review is not an examination; the board does not retest the candidate. Rather, the board should attempt to determine the Scout’s attitude and his acceptance of Scouting’s ideals. The board should make sure that good standards have been met in all phases of the Scout’s life. The decision of all boards of review is arrived at through discussion and must be unanimous. A discussion of the Scout Oath and Scout Law is in keeping with the purpose of the review, to make sure that the candidate recognizes and understands the value of Scouting in his home, unit, school, and community.

Time Extensions
If a Boy Scout or a Venturer foresees that he will be unable to complete the requirements for the Eagle rank prior to his 18th birthday, he may file a petition in writing with the National Youth Development Committee through the local council for special permission to continue to work toward the award after reaching age 18. The petition also may be filed by the unit leader or unit committee. The petition must show good and sufficient evidence and detail the extenuating circumstances that prevented the Scout from completing the requirements prior to his 18th birthday. Extenuating circumstances are defined as conditions or situations that are totally beyond the control of the Boy Scout or Venturer. Should circumstances prevent a Boy Scout or a Venturer from requesting the extension before he is 18, it is still permissible to ask for the extension, detailing the extenuating circumstances that prevented him from completing the requirements and from requesting the extension before age 18. Extenuating circumstances are defined as conditions or situations that are totally beyond the control of the Scout or Venturer.

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Age Limitations for Eagle Scouts
Scouts who have completed all requirements for a rank prior to their 18th birthday, or who have been granted a time extension to complete the requirements (see “Time Extensions,” page 28) after “18th birthday, should submit their application and be reviewed and recognized within three months after that date.” Boards of review conducted between three and six months after the candidate’s 18th birthday must be preapproved by the local council. A statement by an adult explaining the reason for the delay must be attached to the Eagle Scout Rank Application when it is submitted to the national Youth Development office. If an Eagle Scout board of review will be held after the six months following the candidate’s 18th birthday, the Eagle Scout must petition the national Youth Development office for an extension of time to hold the board of review. The petition must be processed through the local council, detailing the extenuating circumstances that prevented the board of review from being held within the six-month period following the candidate’s 18th birthday, and must be accompanied with a copy of the Eagle Scout Rank Application.

A Boy Scout’s unit leaders, assistant unit leaders, relatives, or guardians may not serve as members of his board of review. The review should be conducted at a convenient time and location, such as a meeting, summer camp, or the home of a member of the troop committee. The three purposes of the review are to: 1. Make sure the work has been learned and completed. 2. See how good an experience the Scout is having in his unit. 3. Encourage the Scout to advance to the next rank. Scout Spirit is defined as living the Scout Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in a Scout’s everyday life. Because many boys are ill at ease when talking to adults, it is important that the board be held in a relaxed atmosphere. A certain amount of formality and meaningful questioning should be used during the review. Again, the review is not an examination. The Scout has learned his skill and has been examined. This is a review. The Scout should be asked where he learned his skill, who taught him, and the value he gained from passing this requirement. The Scout reviews what he did for his rank. From this review, it can be determined whether he did what he was supposed to do. The review also reveals what kind of an experience the Scout is having in the troop. With that knowledge, the troop leaders can shape the program to meet the needs and interests of the Scouts. The board should attempt to determine the Scout’s ideals and goals. The board should make sure that a good standard of performance has been met. A discussion of the Scout Oath and Scout Law is in keeping with the purpose of the review, to make sure the candidate recognizes and understands the value of Scouting in his home, unit, school, and community. The board of review members should feel free to refer to the Boy Scout Handbook, Scoutmaster Handbook, or any other references during the review. The Troop Committee Guidebook contains examples of questions that could be asked during a review. The review should take approximately 15 minutes. At the conclusion of the review, the board should know whether a boy is qualified for the rank or Palm. The Scout is asked to leave the room while the board members discuss his achievements.

For the composition of boards of review for Varsity Scout teams and Venturing crews, see “Varsity Scout Advancement” and “Venturing Advancement” later in this chapter. Each time a Boy Scout has completed all requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, and Life ranks, or an Eagle Palm, he appears before a board of review. This board of review is made up of at least three and not more than six members of the unit committee. One member serves as the chair—usually the committee member responsible for advancement.

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The decision of the board of review is arrived at through discussion and must be unanimous. If members are satisfied that the Scout is ready to advance, he is called in, congratulated, notified as to when he will receive his recognition, and encouraged to continue his advancement or earn the next rank or Palm. If the board decides that the Scout is not ready to advance, the candidate should be informed and told what he has not done satisfactorily. Most Scouts accept responsibility for not completing the requirements properly. The members of the board of review should specify what must be done to rework the candidate’s weaknesses and schedule another board of review for him. A follow-up letter must be sent to a Scout who is turned down for rank advancement, confirming the agreements reached on the actions necessary for advancement. Should the Scout disagree with the decision, the appeal procedures should be explained to him. (See “Appealing a Decision” later in this chapter.) The unit must keep a copy of this letter on file. The process for appealing the decision of a board of review is outlined in the chapter “Advancement in the Unit,” under “Appealing a Decision.” After the board of review is completed, the Scoutmaster is informed of all of the decisions that were made by the board of review. When a Scout satisfactorily completes a board of review for a rank or an Eagle Palm, he cannot be awarded his rank until that action is reported to the council service center on an Advancement Report. However, tenure for his next rank or Eagle Palm begins immediately. A monthly report keeps unit records current and is a good practice. The troop scribe should also keep a record in the Troop/Team Record Book for easy reference by the Scoutmaster and use by other boards of review. The Scout should be neat in his appearance; however, a uniform is not required. Local boards of review may not make up their own rules about wearing a uniform.

It should be the desire of the board to encourage the Scout to talk so that the review can be a learning experience for the candidate and the members of the board.

Eagle Scout Boards of Review
The Boy Scouts of America has placed the Eagle Scout board of review in the hands of the troop, team, crew, or ship committee, or the district or council committee responsible for advancement. Additionally, the council shall serve as an appeals board for district boards of review. If the board of review is conducted by the district or council, the method used must be applied consistently to the entire group under the respective leadership level. The council will decide on—and make known—which method or methods will be used. The BSA has also made the local council responsible for providing assistance in Eagle Scout advancement, including program resources, and assistance and leadership for Eagle Scout boards of review. Regardless of which method is used, an Eagle Scout candidate may have only one board of review. All steps beyond an initial board of review fall under the appeals process, which is discussed later in this chapter under “Appealing a Decision.” Review “The 12 Steps From Life to Eagle” below for additional policies and procedures.

The 12 Steps From Life to Eagle
The following 12 steps have been outlined to help ensure a smooth procedure for the Scout, the unit leadership, the local council, and the volunteers who are to conduct the board of review. Share these steps with each Eagle candidate so that he can fully understand the procedure that must be followed by the Scout, the district, and the council. 1. In order to advance to the rank of Eagle, while a Life Scout, a candidate must complete all the requirements of: • ctive tenure (For a definition of active, see “Boy Scout A Advancement” in the chapter called “Advancement in the Unit.”) • cout spirit S • ny remaining merit badges A • ositions of responsibility P • lanning, developing, and providing leadership to P others in a service project • he Scoutmaster conference T

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2. Using the Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook, the candidate must select his Eagle service project and have the project concept approved by his unit leader, the unit committee (which is composed of a minimum of three members and a maximum of six members, age 21 or older), the benefactor of the project, and reviewed and approved by the council or district advancement committee. (See “Eagle Scout Rank,” under “Service Projects” earlier in this chapter.) Without exceptions, the most current Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook must be used in meeting this requirement. See www.scouting.org for the most current version. 3. All requirements for the Eagle Scout rank (except the board of review) must be completed prior to the candidate’s 18th birthday. When all requirements for the rank of Eagle (except the board of review) have been completed, an Eagle Scout Rank Application must be filled out and promptly sent to the council service center. (See the chapter “Advancement for Youth Members With Disabilities” and also “Time Extensions” earlier in this chapter.) The Eagle Scout Rank Application can be found at www.scouting.org. 4. The application should be signed by the unit leader. The unit committee reviews and approves the record of the Eagle candidate before the application is submitted to the local council. If a unit leader or unit committee fails to sign or otherwise approve an application, the Eagle candidate may still be granted a board of review. The failure of a unit leader or unit committee to sign an application may be considered by the board of review in determining the qualification of the Eagle candidate. 5. The Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook, properly filled out, must be submitted with the application. 6. When the completed application is received at the council service center, its contents will be verified and the references contacted. The Scout shall have listed six references (five if there is no employer, and a parent if there is no organized religious association). The council youth development committee or its designee contacts the references listed on the Eagle Scout Rank Application, either by letter, form, or telephone checklist. (The council determines the method or methods to be used.) The candidate should have contacted individuals listed as references before including their names on the application.

If desired by the council, the candidate may be asked to deliver a blank reference form and envelopes to the listed references. However, the candidates should not be involved personally in transmitting any correspondence between people listed as references and the council service center or advancement committee. If the initial reference letter or form is not returned to the council in a timely manner, the council youth development committee must make direct contact with the reference in question (listed on the Eagle Scout Rank Application) by follow-up letter, phone contact, or other methods it chooses. The candidate shall not make any follow-up contact with the reference or submit other reference names. A Scout cannot have a board of review denied or postponed because the council office or council youth development committee does not receive the reference letter forms or fails to follow up. 7. After the contents of an application have been verified and appropriately signed, the application, Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook, and references will be returned from the council service center to the chair of the Eagle board of review so that a board of review may be scheduled. Under no circumstances should a board of review be scheduled until the application is returned to the chair of the Eagle board of review. Reference checks that are forwarded with the application are confidential, and their contents are not to be disclosed to any person who is not a member of the board of review. 8. The board of review for an Eagle candidate is composed of at least three but not more than six members, 21 years of age or older. It is not required that these persons be members of the advancement committee or be registered in Scouting; however, they must have an understanding of the importance and purpose of the Eagle Scout board of review. Unit leaders, assistant unit leaders, relatives, or guardians may not serve as members of a Scout’s board of review. The Scout may have no input into the selection of the board of review members. At least one district or council advancement representative must be a member of the Eagle board of review if the board of review is conducted at a unit level. A council or district may designate more than one person to serve as a member of Eagle boards of review when requested to do so by the unit. The chair will schedule the board of review location, date and time in coordination with the unit leader and the Eagle Scout candidate. The board of review members should convene at least 30 minutes before the candidate appears in order to review the application, reference checks, and service project report.

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9. The candidate’s unit leader introduces him to the members of the board of review. The unit leader may remain in the room at his or her own discretion to observe only and may not participate in the board of review unless called upon to clarify a point in question. In no case should a relative or guardian of the candidate attend the review, even as a unit leader. There is no set of questions that an Eagle candidate should be asked. However, the board should be assured of the candidate’s participation in the program. This is the highest award that a Scout may achieve and, consequently, a thorough discussion of his successes and experiences in Scouting should be considered. After the review, the candidate and his unit leader leave the room while the board members discuss the acceptability of the candidate as an Eagle Scout. Because of the importance of the Eagle Scout Award, a unanimous decision in favor of awarding the Eagle badge must be reached. If the candidate meets the requirements, he is asked to return and is informed that he will receive the board’s recommendation for the Eagle Scout rank. If the candidate does not meet the requirements, he is asked to return to the room and told the reasons for his failure to qualify. If the candidate does not meet the requirements, and a positive, unanimous decision is not reached, then only two possibilities exist. 1. If the Scout’s 18th birthday is not imminent and the board of review feels the Scout needs to improve in certain areas within a defined time frame, the board of review may adjourn and then reconvene at a later date and continue the review of the Scout. A reasonable attempt should be made to reassemble the members of the first board when the board of review is reconvened. 2. If the vote was negative and final, the Scout must be informed of his options for appealing the decision and the proper procedures for an appeal, as outlined in “Appealing a Decision” later in this chapter. The board must elect either 1 or 2 above and after doing so, asks the Eagle candidate to return to the room and he is then told the reasons for his failure to qualify. If the board elects option 1, then a discussion should be held with him as to how he may meet the requirements within a given period. Should the applicant disagree with the decision, the appeal procedures should be explained to him. A follow-up letter must be sent to the Scout confirming the agreements reached on the action(s) necessary for the advancement.

If the Scout chooses to appeal, provide the name and address of the person he is to contact. (See “Appealing a Decision” later in this chapter.) 10. Immediately after the board of review and after the application has been appropriately signed, the application, the service project report, references, and a properly completed Advancement Report are returned to the council service center. 11. When the application arrives at the council service center, the Scout executive signs it to certify that the proper procedure has been followed and that the board of review has recommended the candidate for the Eagle Scout rank. The Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook and references are retained by the council. The Workbook may be returned to the Scout after council approval. The council then forwards this paperwork to the national Youth Development office. 12. Upon receiving the council submitted Eagle application, the national Youth Development office, Eagle processing, will screen the application to ascertain correctness of information (proper signatures, positions of responsibility, tenure between ranks, age of the candidate, and so on). The local council forwards only the Eagle Scout Rank Application to the national Youth Development office. This may be done electronically to hasten the process. After the council’s Eagle Scout processor verifies and certifies that the application is correct, it should be submitted to the national office electronically. Submitting the application electronically is efficient and expeditious. Any errors that occur during the verification process can be corrected to insure an error-free application before submitting. Normal processing, when done manually, will take from four to eight weeks. Electronic submission may reduce the time to approximately two weeks. Any item not meeting national standards will cause the application to be returned for more information. If the application is in order, the Scout is then certified as an Eagle Scout by the Youth Development office on behalf of the National Council. Notice of approval is given by sending the Eagle Scout certificate to the local council. The date used on the certificate will be the date of the board of review. The Eagle Award must not be sold or given to any unit until after the certificate is received by the council service center. The Eagle Scout court of honor should not be scheduled until the local council receives the Eagle Scout rank credentials.

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After earning the Eagle Scout Award, a Scout may work to earn Eagle Palms. An Eagle Palm or Palms must be earned before the Scout’s 18th birthday. Palms must be earned one at a time, in the order of Bronze, Gold, and then Silver. Each Palm level can only be earned after a three-month tenure since his effective Eagle date or since earning the last Palm.

Upon initial receipt of an appeal, the district and the council youth development committee charged with hearing the initial appeal shall provide for a prompt review to determine the facts. • All parties must be interviewed or written statements obtained. Confrontations between opposing parties must be avoided. • The appeal review is not a second board of review and thus a unanimous decision is not required. • A decision may be reached by majority vote. • A written report setting out all details of the appeal and the reasons for the committee’s decision shall be prepared and forwarded to the council Scout executive. • A copy shall be furnished to the Scout bringing the appeal. Appeals to the National Youth Development Committee shall be processed through the local council, and the local council shall furnish copies of all pertinent documentation to the national office, including a statement of the council’s position on the matter. If the appealed issue concerns an Eagle Scout candidate, a copy of the Scout’s Eagle Scout Rank Application shall be included. If the Scout’s Eagle Scout leadership service project is at issue, a copy of his Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook shall be included. All decisions of the National Youth Development Committee in reference to appeals shall be final.

Appealing a Decision
There are two sets of circumstances in which a Scout or his parent(s) or guardian(s), acting on his behalf, may appeal a decision. 1. The first situation occurs when a unit leader or unit committee does not recommend a Scout for a board of review, or refuses to sign the Eagle Scout application. In such cases, the Scout or his parent(s) or guardian(s) may appeal the decision to the committee responsible for advancement at the next level, as described below. The committee hearing the appeal shall then grant the Scout a board of review and appoint its members. 2. The second situation occurs when a board of review does not recommend a candidate for rank advancement. In such a situation, the Scout or his parent(s) or guardian(s) may appeal the decision. All appeals, under any circumstances, shall initially be directed to the next highest level. If the decision leading to the appeal occurred at the unit level, the appeal shall be directed to the district committee responsible for advancement. If the decision leading to the appeal occurred at the district level (i.e., an Eagle Scout board of review conducted by the district), the appeal shall be directed to the council committee responsible for advancement. A decision at either level finding in favor of the Scout shall be final. Units have no right of appeal of a decision. If the initial committee hearing the appeal does not find in favor of the Scout, he or his parent(s) or guardian(s) may appeal that decision to the next highest level. If the initial appeal was made at the district level, the next highest level is the council youth development committee. If the initial decision was made at the council level, or if the council youth development committee upheld the unfavorable finding of the district advancement committee, the Scout or his parent(s) or guardian(s) may appeal to the National Youth Development Committee. All requests for appeal shall be made in writing, signed by the Scout and/or his parent(s) or guardian(s), and shall set forth in detail the reasons for requesting an appeal.

Courts of Honor
Each time a Scout advances in rank, he should be recognized on two occasions. The first should occur as soon as possible after he has been approved by a board of review and an Advancement Report has been filed with the council office —preferably at the next unit meeting. This ceremony should be dignified, simple, and not much more than presenting the Scout with his new badge of rank. The second occasion is a court of honor—a public ceremony to recognize Scouts for successful achievement and to describe the importance of the program. The main purposes of the court of honor are to furnish formal recognition for achievement and to provide incentive for other Scouts to advance. Formal courts of honor should be conducted at least four times a year. All Scouts who have advanced since the previous court of honor are honored. Their families and friends should be invited to attend the ceremony. Procedures for conducting courts of honor and special First Class and Eagle Scout courts of honor are described in Troop Program Resources.

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When a Scout has earned the Eagle Scout rank, he deserves a special recognition. The Eagle Scout ceremony may not be conducted until the action of the board of review has been approved by the national Youth Development office and the candidate has been officially approved as an Eagle.

Restricted Emblems, Badges, and Awards
Badges of rank, merit badges, and Eagle Palms are restricted items. These items may not be sold or distributed unless the Advancement Report has been properly filled out and has been submitted to the local council office. To do otherwise will jeopardize an individual youth member’s record of achievement.

not make up their own rules about who qualifies as a merit badge counselor at camp. Camp staff members who are qualified in the subject and are younger than age 18 may assist the merit badge counselor with instruction. The merit badge counselor or instructor in a particular subject should be available to both individuals and groups. However, regardless of the class format, each Scout must be reviewed individually by the counselor to ensure completion of the badge’s requirements. Each counselor must maintain the exact standards as outlined in the merit badge requirements—nothing deleted, nothing added—and make himself or herself available at the time most convenient to the Scouts. Partial completion of merit badges should be credited to a Scout on the Application for Merit Badge (blue card) and given to the Scoutmaster at the end of the week. Keeping detailed advancement records for merit badges or partial work on merit badges while at a resident camp is very important and should be a top priority of camp and council leadership. The council youth development committee should periodically visit each resident camp to ascertain that a quality merit badge instruction program is offered. There is no time limit for completion of merit badges other than age 18.

Advancement at Boy Scout Resident Camp
In developing council procedures for handling advancement reports and distributing badges, remember that many Boy Scout advancement opportunities take place in camp. Special attention should be given to ensure that the procedures include Boy Scout resident camp. The procedures for advancement in camp are established by the council youth development committee in cooperation with the committee responsible for camp, the camp director, and the program director. These procedures must be approved by the council youth development committee prior to the opening of camp. This procedure must include the four processes of advancement—learning, testing, reviewing, and recognition. The camp program director will organize program staff, specialists, commissioners, and department heads in such a way that the program in camp is completely operative from the beginning of the camp season. These procedures should be given to each troop as part of precamp orientation. The program director is responsible for assuring that all program equipment relating to advancement is available for use. Camp staff members should be prepared and available to assist unit leaders in teaching and testing Scouts on Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class requirements. Resident camp merit badge counselors must be qualified (see “Qualifications of Counselors” in the chapter “The District Youth Development Committee”). Councils may

Varsity Scout Advancement
Position of responsibility requirements for Star and Life ranks may be met by a Varsity Scout serving as a team captain, cocaptain, program manager, squad leader, or in other leadership roles assigned by the Coach. The acceptable positions of responsibility for the Eagle Scout rank are listed on the Eagle Scout Rank Application. The Varsity Scout Coach will conduct a Coach conference. (See “Scoutmaster Conferences” under “Boy Scout Advancement” earlier in this chapter.) As the Varsity Scout meets the requirements for each rank, a board of review is conducted by the team committee member responsible for advancement, the advancement program manager, and the Varsity Scout Coach for all ranks except Eagle Scout. The Eagle Scout board of review follows the procedure established by the local council.

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Venturer Advancement
The district and council’s youth development committee should become familiar with the Venturing program and in particular the Venturing advancement program to help those crews meet their advancement goals. The Venturing advancement program is available to all youth Venturing members of the BSA. Interviews with Venturers have shown that advancement is the way they learned and grew. Like many young people, they may say up front they don’t want to work, but just have fun. However, the purpose of Venturing is not to just have fun, but to help those youths have a meaningful growth experience that will last a lifetime. It is the responsibility of the district and council youth development committees to assist crews with advancement opportunities that will help these young people reach their goals. The purpose is to: • Provide a pathway for personal development. • Encourage Venturers to learn, grow, and serve. • Recognize the high level of achievement of Venturers who acquire Venturing skills. • Identify trained and highly motivated Venturers who will be a training, leadership, and program resource for other Venturers, Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, organizations, and the community. The Venturing advancement track includes the Bronze, Gold, and Silver awards. Bronze. The introduction to specific Venturing skills. Venturers may earn one or more of the five Bronze awards: Arts and Hobbies, Sports, Sea Scouting, Outdoor, and Religious Life. One Bronze is required for Gold. A new Math and Science Bronze will be introduced in 2010. Gold. The intermediate level requires at least 12 months of tenure and work. Requirements are based on three areas of work: personal development, service, and leadership. Gold requires a preapproved (by the Advisor) plan of action and a crew review board consisting of youth and adults and conducted by the crew president. It is appropriate to present the award at a court of honor and may be combined with a troop court of honor. Gold is required for Silver. Silver. The highest award for Venturers. In addition to earning a Bronze and Gold award, Venturers do additional work in the areas of leadership, emergency preparedness, and ethics. Silver requires a preapproved plan of action and crew review.

Additional Venturing awards include the Ranger, Quest, and TRUST awards. Ranger. The Ranger Award is based on outdoors/highadventure requirements. A Venturer must complete eight requirements and at least four of 18 electives. The Outdoor Bronze Award is half of Ranger. There is no board of review. Quest. The Quest Award is based on fitness and sports. A Venturer must complete five core requirements and at least one of five electives. There is no review board. The Sports Bronze Award is the first requirement. TRUST. The TRUST Award will help Venturers learn about themselves, their communities, and their religion and culture, as well as those of others. They must complete five areas of requirements with the support of a religious leader in their community.

Venturer Advancement and Tenure
Details on Venturing advancement may be found in the Venturing Leaders Manual, Venturer/ Ranger Handbook, Quest Handbook, and TRUST Handbook. Unlike Boy Scouting—except for the Gold award, which has a 12-month tenure requirement—the other ranks and awards have no tenure requirement. A Venturer may work on many ranks and awards at the same time and potentially could even be presented with several awards in the same court of honor.

It is appropriate to present Venturer and Sea Scout awards at a court of honor or Eagle/Silver banquet, and to recognize them in local and school newspapers.

Past Credit for Venturers
All requirements for all awards require Venturers to do work as Venturers. As an example, they may have earned the Backpacking merit badge as a Boy Scout, but must do all that is required in the Ranger backpacking elective while registered as a Venturer. Some requirements may require some type of certification such as Scuba Open-Water Diver, American Red Cross Standard First Aid, or BSA Lifeguard. This certification may be used regardless of when it was earned as long as the certification is still current.

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Multiple Credit for Venturers
Venturers may receive multiple credit for requirements in Venturing, such as using an American Red Cross Emergency Response course for credit in the Ranger first aid core requirement, first aid elective, Lifesaver elective, and the Silver Emergency Preparedness requirement. However, Venturers may not receive multiple credit when required to do a tabletop display or presentation. These must be done for each requirement that requires one. Qualified members who are working on Boy Scout advancement may receive credit for work toward Boy Scout advancement and Venturing advancement. An example would be getting dual credit for hikes for the Backpacking merit badge and for the Ranger backpacking elective, or for a conservation project required in Boy Scouts and in Venturing.

The Scoutmaster conference will be conducted by the Advisor. Then, as the Venturer meets the requirements for the Star and Life ranks, a board of review is conducted by the crew committee. The Eagle board of review follows the procedure established by the local council. All work on all Venturing advancement must be completed prior to the young person’s 21st birthday.

Sea Scout Advancement
Sea Scout advancements are approved by the ship’s quarterdeck. In the case of the Quartermaster Award, the application is reviewed by the ship’s committee with a member of the district advancement committee serving as chair. Sea Scout advancement includes Apprentice, ordinary, Able, and Quartermaster. Apprentice. The first step of the Sea Scout advancement program involves youth who are members of Sea Scouting and have learned the Sea Scout Promise and are active with a ship. They learn about seamanship, its safety and customs, swimming, and working with ships as a crew member. Ordinary. The next step involves being active with the ship, explaining the Sea Scout emblem, understanding the history of the U.S. flag, participating regularly in meetings, and learning special skills on the operation of boats, marlinspike seamanship techniques, yacht racing procedures, sailing abilities, ornamental rope work, and engine maintenance. Able. This step involves the Sea Scout in ship ceremonies, etiquette in boarding boats, ship participation, sharing of experiences with other youth, and showing proficiency in a variety of watercraft specialties. Quartermaster. In addition to earning the above Sea Scouting awards, the Quartermaster candidate must write and submit a paper on how their ship can contribute to the world fellowship of Scouting, be an active member of their ship, develop and conduct a service project helpful to others, and show specialty skills in boating and marlinspike seamanship. The Quartermaster rank/growth opportunity for Sea Scouts is based on seamanship skills. It requires a preapproved plan of action and a board of review. The Sea Scouting Bronze may be earned by Sea Scouts and is half of Quartermaster.

Scouts who earn the First Class rank while a registered member of a Boy Scout troop or Varsity Scout team may elect to continue working toward Eagle as a registered member in the Boy Scout troop or a registered member in a Venturing crew, or while retaining dual membership registration in both a troop/team and a Venturing crew. Whichever registration status a young man elects, both the Scoutmaster and crew Advisor should confirm with the youth which adult leader will oversee his advancement process toward the rank of Eagle. If the Advisor takes the primary role and is unfamiliar with Boy Scout advancement, the district youth development committee should work with that Advisor or select an experienced Scoutmaster to assist the Advisor. That selected adult leader must be fully cognizant of the 12 steps from Life to Eagle (see the details in this manual), the timeline requirements of certain merit badges required for Eagle (see the current edition of Boy Scout Requirements), and the requirements of the Eagle Scout leadership service project (see the reference in this manual). Position of responsibility requirements may be met by the Venturer serving as president, vice president, secretary, or treasurer in his crew, or as boatswain, boatswain’s mate, yeoman, purser, or storekeeper in his ship. 33

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Advancement for Youth Members With Disabilities

There has been much confusion among volunteers and professionals as to the rules and regulations regarding who qualifies, and—most importantly—who doesn’t qualify for age exemption as a Scout with disabilities. In an effort to clear up confusion, under Article XI, section 3, clause 20 of the BSA’s Rules and Regulations governing Special Types of Registration, it states the following. Mentally Retarded or Severely Physically Disabled Youth Members. In the discretion of the (National) Executive Board, and under such rules and regulations as it may prescribe upon consultation with appropriate medical authorities, registration of boys who are either mentally retarded or severely physically handicapped, including the blind, deaf, and emotionally disturbed, over age 11 as Cub Scouts and over age 18 as Boy Scouts or Varsity Scouts, and registration of young adults who are either mentally retarded or severely physically handicapped, including the blind, deaf, and emotionally disturbed, over age 21 as Venturers, and the participation of each in the respective advancement programs while registered, is authorized.

The operative words are: mentally retarded or severely physically handicapped young people. Examples of these medical conditions include: • Down syndrome • Legal blindness • Severe autism • People permanently confined to wheelchairs, i.e., someone who is quadriplegic • People who are deaf The Annual Health and Medical Record form must be used as part of the procedure for registering a severely physically disabled youth in Scouting. Their medical condition must be certified with a signed statement from a licensed physician. In the case of mentally retarded or emotionally disturbed candidates, their condition must be certified by a statement signed by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist. This extension of age is not provided as a window of opportunity for those who are less challenged such as someone who has a moderate learning disability or for those who just can’t seem to advance within the normal time restrictions. Individuals whose medical conditions are

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not as severe as defined in clause 20 do not qualify for the age restriction exemption and must follow the normal age requirements for advancement. If in doubt, contact the national Youth Development office.

While leaders must be enthusiastic about helping youngsters with disabilities, they must at the same time fully recognize the special demands that will be made on their patience, understanding, and skill in teaching advancement requirements.

Denial of Time Extensions for Eagle Candidates Registered as Special Needs Scouts
In the past, in an effort to secure national approval for a time extension beyond the normal range so that their Eagle candidate son could work on his Eagle Scout requirements past his 18th birthday, some families have tried to use nonsevere, temporary medical conditions such as a learning disorder or ADD/ADHD as “extenuating circumstances.” Such requests will continue to be denied, and families and/or individuals should be discouraged in requesting a time extension for these reasons.

Advancement for Boy Scouts With Disabilities
These guidelines apply to advancement for all Boy Scouts with disabilities. • All current requirements for an advancement award (ranks, merit badges, or Eagle Palms) must actually be met by the candidate. • There are no substitutions or alternatives permitted except those that are specifically stated in the requirements as set forth in the current official literature of the Boy Scouts of America. • Requests for alternate rank requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class can be made using the information outlined in this chapter. • The Scout is expected to meet the requirements as stated—no more and no less. Furthermore, he is to do exactly what is stated. If it says “show or demonstrate,” that is what he must do; just telling about it isn’t enough. The same thing holds true for such words as “make,” “list,” “in the field,” “collect, identify, and label,” and so on.

Advancement for Cub Scouts With Disabilities
The advancement program is so flexible that, with guidance, most boys can do the skills. It might take longer for a youth with disabilities to complete the requirements, but these accomplishments will be more personally meaningful. The standard for every boy is, “Has he done his best?” A Cub Scout who is physically disabled may be given permission by the Cubmaster and pack committee to substitute electives for achievement requirements that are beyond his abilities. It is best to include parents in this process of determining substitutions since they are most familiar with their son’s abilities. Immediate recognition of advancement is even more important for boys with disabilities. The Tiger Cub and Cub Scout Immediate Recognition Kits, the den doodle, and the Den Advancement Chart all help provide immediate recognition in den meetings as achievements and electives are completed. Remember that a month seems like a long time to a boy and that completing requirements for a badge might seem like forever to him. Be sure to give him periodic recognition at pack meetings when he earns a badge.

Alternate Requirements Through First Class Rank
A Scout who has a permanent physical or mental disability and is unable to complete all of the requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, or First Class rank may submit a request to the council youth development committee to complete alternate requirements. Below are the procedures for applying for alternate requirements. To keep Scouts with disabilities as much in the advancement mainstream as possible, some advancement accommodations may be required. Thus, a Scout in a wheelchair can meet the requirements for hiking by making a trip to a place of interest in his community. Giving more time and permitting the use of special aids are other ways leaders can help Scouts with disabilities in their efforts to advance. The substitute should provide a similar learning experience.

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Guidelines for Alternate Requirements
1. Do As Many Standard Requirements As Possible. Before applying for alternate requirements, the Scout must complete as many of the standard requirements as his ability permits. He must do his very best to develop himself to the limit of his abilities and resources. 2. Secure a Medical Statement. A clear and concise medical statement concerning the Scout’s disabilities or limitations must be submitted by a licensed health-care provider. It must state that the disability is permanent and must outline what physical activities the Scout may not be capable of completing. In the case of a mental disability such as a learning disability, an evaluation statement should be submitted by a certified educational administrator relating the ability level of the Scout. 3. Prepare a Request for Alternate Requirements. A written request must be submitted to the council youth development committee for the Scout to work on alternate requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class ranks. The request should include the standard requirements the Scout has completed and the suggested alternate requirements for those requirements that he cannot complete. This request should be detailed enough for the youth development committee to make an informed decision. The request should be prepared by the Scout, his parents, and his Scoutmaster, and should include a copy of the medical or educational statement as required in step 2. 4. The Youth Development Committee Reviews the Request. The council youth development committee should review the request, utilizing the expertise of professional persons involved in Scouts with disabilities. The committee may want to interview the Scout, his parents, and the unit leader to fully understand the request and to make a fair determination. The committee’s decision should be recorded and delivered to the Scout and the unit leader.

Bear in mind the outcome of the Scouting experience should be one of fun and learning, and not completing requirements for rank advancements, which might place unrealistic expectations on the Scout.

• Requests for alternate rank requirements may be made using the information outlined in this chapter. • The Venturer is expected to meet the requirements as stated—no more and no less. Furthermore, he or she is to do exactly what is stated. If it says “show or demonstrate,” that is what he or she must do; just telling about it isn’t enough. The same thing holds true for such words as “make,” “list,” “in the field,” “collect, identify, and label,” and so on. No council, district, unit, or individual has the authority to add to, or to subtract from, any advancement requirements.

Advancement for Venturers With Disabilities
These guidelines apply to advancement for all Venturers with disabilities. • All current requirements for an advancement award must actually be met by the candidate. • There are no substitutions or alternatives permitted except those that are specifically stated in the requirements as set forth in the current official literature of the Boy Scouts of America.

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Approval for Special Needs Eagle Candidates
These guidelines apply only to those who are qualified for the age restriction exemption. When submitting an Eagle application for special needs Eagle candidates over the age of 18, written documentation of approval must be given by the council youth development committee and council executive board that the Eagle Scout candidate is over the age of 18 and has met the qualifications for a special needs Scout as stated in Article XI, section 3, clause 20 of the BSA’s Rules and Regulations governing Special Types of Registration. The Scout executive must attach a letter to the application indicating that the executive board has approved the application.

3. A clear and concise medical statement concerning the Scout’s disabilities and limitations must be made by a physician licensed to practice medicine, or an evaluation statement must be certified by an educational administrator. 4. The candidate must earn as many of the required merit badges as his ability permits before applying for an alternate Eagle Scout rank merit badge. 5. The Application for Alternate Eagle Scout Award Merit Badges must be completed prior to qualifying for alternate merit badges. 6. The alternate merit badges chosen must be of such a nature that they are as demanding of effort as the required merit badges. 7. When alternates chosen involve physical activity, they must be approved by the physician. 8. The unit leader and the board of review must explain that to attain the Eagle Scout rank, a candidate is expected to do his best in developing himself to the limit of his resources. 9. The application must be approved by the council youth development committee, utilizing the expertise of professional persons involved in Scouting for people with disabilities. 10. The candidate’s application for Eagle must be made on the Eagle Scout Rank Application, with the Application for Alternate Eagle Scout Award Merit Badges attached.

Alternate Merit Badges for the Eagle Scout Rank
These guidelines must be followed when determining appropriate alternate merit badges for the Eagle Scout rank. 1. The Eagle Scout rank may be achieved by a Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or qualified* Venturer and Sea Scout who has a physical or mental disability by qualifying for alternate merit badges. This does not apply to individual requirements for merit badges. Merit badges are awarded only when all requirements are met as stated. 2. The physical or mental disability must be of a permanent rather than of a temporary nature.

*In order for a Venturer to be an Eagle candidate, he must have achieved the First Class rank as a Boy Scout or Varsity Scout.

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Miscellaneous Topics

A number of topics are common to all phases of the Scouting program. These subjects are discussed individually in order to form a handy guide for the council and district youth development committees as well as for the unit leader and unit committee.

Lone Scouting
Throughout the country and the world, boys who do not have access to traditional Scouting units can become Lone Cub Scouts and Lone Boy Scouts. Circumstances in the life of a boy that may make Lone Scouting a desired option include: • Home-schooled Scouts whose parents do not want them in a youth group • Children of American citizens who live abroad • Exchange students away from the United States for a year or longer • Scouts with disabilities that may prevent them from attending regular meetings of packs and troops • Scouts in rural communities and who live far from a Scouting unit • Sons of migratory farm workers • Scouts who attend night school or boarding school • Scouts who have jobs that conflict with troop meeting times

Extended Absence From Scouting
Many times Scouts become active again after dropping out from other units because of other interests, moving within the community, or relocating to another part of the country. Youth who were members of a “dropped” unit also may become active again. A proper term for such a Scout is “separated-reregistered.” When this happens, the tenure for a Scout’s rank is often questioned. Upon reregistration, the youth should assume the last attained rank verified by documentation from the council service center. His previous verifiable service time in that rank applies toward qualification for the next rank and should commence with his reregistration and with guidelines set by his new unit leader.

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• Scouts whose families frequently travel, such as circus families, families who live on boats, and so on • Scouts who have alternate living arrangements with parents who live in different communities • Scouts who are unable to attend unit meetings because of life-threatening communicable diseases • Scouts whose parents believe their child might be endangered in getting to Scout unit meetings These boys can apply to the local council service center to become a Lone Cub Scout or a Lone Boy Scout. Scouts and adults who live outside of the United States may inquire about Lone Scouting by contacting the International Department of the Boy Scouts of America. However, Lone Scouts is not an alternative for Scouts who cannot get along in a unit or just don’t like units they have attended. It is not an alternative means to earning the Eagle Award. A Lone Scout works with a designated Lone Scout friend and counselor, who can be a parent. This friend is responsible for the Scout’s learning, testing, and reviewing, and for awarding his badges. Boys who can attend regular meetings of packs and troops are not eligible for the Lone Cub Scout or Lone Boy Scout programs. Lone Scouts may meet monthly (or less frequently) with others in the area. These meetings may provide the opportunity to give additional instruction and counseling so that the boy has a better chance to advance. This also is an excellent time to award him his rank and recognize his achievements.

Lone Scout Advancement Procedures
Lone Scouts are not registered with a Cub Scout pack or a Boy Scout troop, and must rely on their Lone Scout friend and counselor for leadership and guidance. They are not expected to meet the specific advancement requirements in the same way a member of a regular pack or troop does. For instance, the Boy Scouts of America allows the Lone Scout friend and counselor to suggest alternative requirements. This is important, since the Scout cannot meet all the advancement requirements because he is not in a unit. All such alternative requirements should be equal to the replaced requirement. Alternative requirements must be approved by the local council youth development committee. Any unequal or dissimilar requirement should be allowed only in extreme circumstances, or when such like requirements could not be met without extreme hazard or hardship to the boy. See the Lone Scout Friend and Counselor Guidebook for more details. Some problems in the wording of requirements are simple and do not require council approval. When a requirement asks a boy to do something with his patrol or troop, interpret “patrol” or “troop” to mean family, buddies, school, club, or religious group. Translate “Scoutmaster” to mean “friend and counselor.” You will want to help the Lone Boy Scout you counsel to make an appropriate substitute and to feel comfortable about the change. For example, the Star, Life, and Eagle ranks require a Scout to serve a period of months in a Boy Scout troop leadership position. Instead, a Lone Boy Scout may carry out a leadership responsibility in his school, religious organization, or club, or elsewhere in his community.

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Youth From Other Countries
A youth from another country who either temporarily resides in, or has moved permanently to, the United States may join a BSA unit and participate in the BSA advancement program. The youth must present to the council service center available evidence of membership and of his or her advancement level from the previous association. Having done this, the youth then must appear before the district or council youth development committee with at least one member of the receiving unit committee present to review any previous advancement work and to determine which BSA rank he or she is qualified to receive. This policy applies to all ranks except Eagle Scout. The BSA rank of Eagle Scout cannot automatically be considered the equivalent of another association’s highest rank. A Boy Scout who holds his association’s highest rank could qualify for the rank of Life Scout, and the district or council youth development committee should prescribe certain merit badges for him to earn before consideration for the rank of Eagle Scout. He must also fulfill all other requirements for the rank of Eagle Scout. This policy also applies to members of the BSA who, while living abroad, have earned advancement in another Scouting association.

2. The Boy Scouts of America does not require membership in a religious organization or association for enrollment in the movement but does prefer, and strongly encourages, membership and participation in the religious programs and activities of a church, synagogue, or other religious association. If a Scout does not belong to a religious organization or association, then his parent(s) or guardian(s) will be considered to be responsible for his religious development. 3. Boy Scouts of America respects the convictions of those who exercise their constitutional freedom to practice religion as individuals without formal membership in organized religious organizations. In a few cases, there are those who, by conviction, do not feel it necessary to formally belong to an organized form of religion and seek to practice religion in accordance with their own personal convictions. Religious organizations have commended the Boy Scouts of America for encouraging youth to participate in organized religious activities. However, these same organizations reject any form of compulsion to enforce conformity to established religious practices. 4. If a boy says he is a member of a religious body, the standards by which he should be evaluated are those of that group. This is why the application for the Eagle Scout Award requests a reference from his religious leader to indicate whether he has lived up to their expectations. Throughout life, Scouts are associated with people of different faiths. Scouting believes in religious freedom, respecting others whose religion may differ from theirs, and in the right of all to worship God in their own way.

Religious Principles
The Boy Scouts of America has a definite position on religious principles (see Article IX, section 1, clause 1). The following interpretative statement may help clarify this position. 1. The Boy Scouts of America does not define what constitutes belief in God or the practice of religion.

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Special Recognitions

Awards are recognitions that Scouts and adults are presented when others wish to honor them for accomplishment. Awards, for the most part, are not earned by the recipients. Awards for individuals are proposed, approved, and presented without the recipient’s request or participation. Exceptions to this general rule will be noted. For example, the recognitions listed under “Special Opportunity Programs” and “Religious Emblems,” discussed later in this chapter, are earned by Scouts and, in some cases, by unit leaders. Since these programs are not a part of the advancement process of the Boy Scouts of America, they are more appropriately managed as a segment of the awards program.

The award is made available annually on the basis of one award for each 25 traditional units, or fraction thereof, registered on December 31. The district need not present all of the awards to which it is entitled each year. A professional Scouter or other council employee may not receive this award based on employment service. However, a professional Scouter or employee who also serves as a volunteer Scouter may be eligible, based on volunteer service. Requirements A nominee must be a registered Scouter and must have rendered noteworthy service to youth. The nature and value of “noteworthy service to youth” may consist of a single plan or decisions that contributed vitally to the lives of large numbers of youth, or it may have been given to a small group over an extended time.

District and Council Awards
District Award of Merit
The District Award of Merit is a council award presented by districts in the same manner that the Silver Beaver Award is a national award presented by councils. The award is available to any registered Scouter who renders service of an outstanding nature on the district level. It is not appropriate to nominate a Scouter who has already received this award.

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Consideration should be given to the nominee’s position and the corresponding opportunity to render outstanding service beyond the expectation of duty. The nominee’s attitude toward and cooperation with the district and council is to be taken into consideration. The nomination is confidential. To avoid possible disappointment, the committee should not advise the nominee of action on his or her behalf. Procedures 1. Annually, the district chairs will appoint a temporary special District Award of Merit committee of not more than five persons. This group will consider all district candidates and make their recommendations of those to receive the award to the council through the Scout executive. The committee’s term of office shall be for one year from the date of appointment. 2. The Scout executive will inform the district chair of those nominations approved by the council committee. 3. The following procedure is suggested for such presentation ceremonies. a. The recipient and spouse should be in attendance at the annual meeting or recognition dinner. b. A district and/or council officer should explain the award and its significance. c. Eagle Scouts or Silver Award Venturers should be asked to escort the recipients to a place of honor at the head table or on stage. d. A suitable citation for each recipient should be read indicating what each has done in Scouting. e. The award should be presented at this time with appropriate congratulations. f. The only uniform insignia which accompanies this award is an embroidered knot. g. A group picture may be taken for use in neighborhood or community newspapers (and its distribution is the district’s responsibility).

Requirements • This award may be presented each year upon the nomination of chartered local councils. These nominations shall be submitted to the national Youth Development office not fewer than 30 days in advance of the date upon which it is desired to present the awards. • The award is presented for noteworthy service of exceptional character to youth by registered adult leaders in Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, and Venturing, within the territory under the jurisdiction of a local council. • As evidence of the award there shall be presented: a suitable certificate, duly supplied by and authenticated by the Boy Scouts of America, pursuant to the action of the National Court of Honor; and a miniature silver beaver suspended by a blue and white ribbon to be worn around the neck. • It shall be general policy that no public announcements shall be made by the local council in advance of action by the National Court of Honor with reference to names presented for consideration. • These awards shall be made to the recipients by the local council in connection with its annual recognition dinner or other public function. • Each local council shall be entitled to one nomination. Councils having more than 60 traditional units shall be entitled to further nominations on the basis of one for each additional 60 traditional units or fraction thereof in their territory, as of December 31 preceding the nomination, according to the records of the national office. • Councils not using their full allotment in any year may accumulate the unused portion for use in any subsequent year. • In extraordinary cases, the Silver Beaver Award may be made by the National Court of Honor to a Scouter upon the recommendation of Scouting authorities who have supervision of one or more units of the Boy Scouts of America, located outside of the United States, and not under the jurisdiction of a local council. Procedures 1. Give the full name and titles, if any, of the nominee exactly as you want them to appear on the certificate. Do not use abbreviations, initials only, or nicknames. 2. Furnish as much information as possible. (Specific group identification enables us to provide a name to national organization headquarters that may wish to compliment the recipient of the honor.)

Silver Beaver Award
The Silver Beaver Award is a national award offered by the National Court of Honor and presented by councils. Annually, the council president will appoint a Silver Beaver Award committee that will consider candidates and make recommendations. The Silver Beaver Award nomination form can be found at www.scouting.org.

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3. Nominations will not be considered for current or former professional Scouters within five years of their leaving employment with the BSA. Other council employees (part-time or full-time) are eligible to receive the Silver Beaver Award based on their volunteer service, not employed service. 4. Nominations cannot be considered for posthumous awards. 5. Order Silver Beaver insignia on the regular supply order form from your Supply Group distribution center. The Silver Beaver Award nomination form can be found at www.scouting.org.

Requirements Recognition may be given to a youth member or adult leader of the Boy Scouts of America where the evidence presented to the National Court of Honor, in accordance with prescribed regulations, shows that he or she saved or attempted to save human life under circumstances that indicate heroism and risk to self. The court will give consideration to resourcefulness and to demonstrated skill in rescue methods. In no case shall recognition be given where it appears that the risk involved was merely in the performance of duty, or the meeting of an obligation because of responsibility to supervise and give leadership to the persons whose lives were saved. It shall be wholly within the discretion of the National Court of Honor to determine from evidence presented which, if any, lifesaving award shall be made. Awards are issued in the name of the Boy Scouts of America. The awards are as follows. • The Honor Medal With Crossed Palms may be awarded in exceptional cases to a youth member or adult leader who has demonstrated both unusual heroism and extraordinary skill or resourcefulness in saving or attempting to save human life at extreme risk to self. • The Honor Medal may be awarded to a youth member or adult leader who has demonstrated unusual heroism in saving or attempting to save human life at considerable risk to self. • The Heroism Award may be awarded to a youth member or adult leader who has demonstrated heroism and skill in saving or attempting to save human life at minimum risk to self. Procedures 1. The council youth development committee or subcommittee may be constituted as a committee in lifesaving and meritorious action awards. 2. Unless unusual circumstances account for the time lapse, no application may be considered after six months from the action without a written explanation from the Scout executive or from the adviser to the council committee. 3. Separate applications are required if more than one member is being recommended for recognition. The council committee must investigate the case, interview the principals and witnesses, secure necessary signed statements, and make a recommendation based upon a full knowledge of the facts. It is recommended that this committee meet within 30 days of the receipt of the recommendation.

Special Recognitions for Volunteers
Woods Services Award. This annual award was established to recognize volunteers who have performed exceptional service and leadership in the field of Scouts with disabilities. Nomination forms are sent annually to councils every September with a December 31 deadline. One person is selected each spring for national recognition. The Woods Services Award nomination form can be found at www.scouting.org. Torch of Gold Certificate. This is for local council use in recognizing adults for outstanding service to youth with disabilities.

Lifesaving Awards
Recipients of these awards must have been registered members of the Boy Scouts of America at the time the action was performed. It shall be within the discretion of the National Court of Honor to determine which, if any, type of recognition shall be given. Awards are made in the name of the Boy Scouts of America. National Court of Honor determinations are final and not reviewable. All applications, which can be found at www.scouting. org, should be submitted to the National Court of Honor/Youth Development office through the local council upon duly prescribed forms.

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4. Only members of the committee present during the interviews and involved in the investigation should sign the application. At least three signatures are required from the council committee. The National Court of Honor reserves the right to contact individual members of the investigation committee. The council committee bears the responsibility for: • Writing a summary of the event • Completing the application in detail • Providing any attachments, newspaper clippings, etc., that pertain to the case It is recommended that no case be forwarded to the National Court of Honor without the endorsement or statement of an eyewitness. All recognitions are reserved for registered members. No such member should be encouraged to submit an application on his or her own behalf. Caution is urged not to submit weak cases (in terms of meaningful action or documentation) to the National Court of Honor. Deliberations are conducted by the court not only to recognize deserving individuals, but also to preserve the historical integrity of the awards. Ensure that all names are spelled correctly. Names, as spelled on the application, will be used to record and inscribe appropriate certificates.

• The National Certificate of Merit may be awarded to a youth member or adult leader who has performed a significant act of service that is deserving of special national recognition.

Local Council Certificate of Merit
A Local Council Certificate of Merit is available for recognizing acts that the council committee does not feel qualify for national recognition but should receive some recognition. The council youth development committee should conduct the investigation and review carefully to maintain the integrity of the certificates.

Spirit of the Eagle Award
The Boy Scouts of America has created the Spirit of the Eagle Award as an honorary posthumous special recognition for individual, registered youth and adult members who have lost their lives in a tragic accident or through illness. This award is bestowed by the National Court of Honor as part of the celebration of life of this individual. The award recognizes the joy, happiness, and life-fulfilling experiences that the Scouting program made in this person’s life. The intention is also to help heal and comfort the member’s family, loved ones, and friends with their loss. Because the Scouting program was appreciated, loved, and enjoyed by this individual, the award will serve as a reflection of the person’s family and friends’ wishes as a final salute and tribute to their departed loved one. Guidelines 1. The recipient must be a registered member at the time of his or her death. 2. The unit committee must submit an application for the award within six months of the member’s death. 3. The unit committee must request the approval of the local council. The Spirit of the Eagle Award application, which can be found at www.scouting.org, should be completed and submitted to the local council service center for review and approval. The local council will then forward the approved application to the national Youth Development office, which will produce and return the Spirit of the Eagle Award certificate for presentation.

Meritorious Action Awards
Recognition may be given to a youth member or adult leader of the Boy Scouts of America where the evidence presented to the National Court of Honor, in accordance with prescribed regulations, shows that a significant or outstanding act of service of an exceptional character was performed. The action taken need not involve attempts of rescue or risk to self but must put into practice Scouting skills and/or ideals. Recognition shall not be given where it appears that the action involved was merely in the performance of duty or the meeting of an obligation. Here are the awards. • The Medal of Merit may be awarded to a youth member or adult leader who has performed an act of service of a rare or exceptional character that reflects an uncommon degree of concern for the well-being of other people.

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Distinguished Eagle Scout Award
The Distinguished Eagle Scout Award is the highest award presented by the National Eagle Scout Association to those who have been Eagle Scouts for at least 25 years, who have distinguished themselves in their work, and who have shared their talents with their communities on a voluntary basis. Service to Scouting is not necessarily an important criterion in the determination of worthiness or degree of distinction of a potential recipient. Only nominations of truly distinguished individuals—those receiving extraordinary recognition, fame, or eminence—should be submitted. No posthumous nominations are accepted. Selection of recipients is made by the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award Committee of the board of directors of the National Eagle Scout Association, all of whom are recipients of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. The presentation of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award should be made, if appropriate, at a career or community centered event. It may take place at a Scouting function, although this is not recommended, but should not overshadow the presentation of other awards, such as the Silver Beaver. The award may be presented as part of a fund-raising activity. Presentation of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award should be made within the council submitting the nomination, and whenever possible by a previous recipient of the award. Applications for nomination are available only through the local council.

Note these important points. • Indicate the category of the project—energy conservation, soil and water conservation, fish and wildlife management, forestry and range management, air and water pollution control, resource recovery, hazardous material disposal and management, or invasive species control. • Give the specific title of the project and a detailed description of what was done, who did it, when it was done, and how it was done. • Include any other pertinent information. • Applicants must be currently registered in the program in which they are applying for the award (i.e., Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, Venturer) when the application is signed.

Hornaday Badge
The Hornaday badge is awarded, upon approval of the local council, to a Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or Venturer for outstanding service to conservation and environmental improvement. Applicants meeting all requirements received a certificate and the William T. Hornaday badge. The application, which can be found at www.scouting.org, should be completed and approved by the unit leader. The unit leader should then forward the application to the local council service center for review and approval by the council conservation committee and Scout executive. The local council will then forward the application to the director of Outdoor Programs, Boy Scouts of America. Note these important points. • Give a detailed description of the project, as outlined for the unit award above. • Be sure the applicant, conservation adviser, and unit leader sign the application before it is sent to the national office. • Check and date all merit badges completed. • Boy Scout and Varsity Scout applicants must complete these requirements before their 18th birthday. Venturer applicants must complete requirements before their 21st birthday.

William T. Hornaday Awards
The William T. Hornaday Award is presented for distinguished service in conservation. The Hornaday Award may be given in one of five forms.

Hornaday Unit Award
A Hornaday unit certificate is awarded to a pack, troop, team, or crew of five or more Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, or Venturers for a unique, substantial conservation project. At least 60 percent of registered unit members must participate. These units may be nominated, or they may apply to their BSA local council for recognition. The application, which can be found at www.scouting.org, should be completed and submitted to the local council service center for review and approval by the council conservation committee and Scout executive. The local council will then forward the application to the national office of the Boy Scouts of America.

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Hornaday Bronze or Silver Medal
These individual awards are granted by the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America to a Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or Venturer for exceptional and distinguished service to conservation and environmental improvement. The silver medal, the most distinguished in Scouting for exceptional conservation service, will be awarded for clearly outstanding efforts in planning, leadership, execution of plans, involvement of others, and opportunities taken to help others learn about natural resource conservation and environmental improvement. The distinction between the bronze and silver medals is based primarily on the number and quality of the projects and their impact on the local community. The William T. Hornaday Awards Committee may award a bronze medal if the application does not meet the standard of exceptional service required for the silver medal. There is no limit on the number of bronze medals that may be awarded each year. Both awards include a medal (bronze or silver), a certificate, and an embroidered square knot. Complete the application, which can be found at www.scouting.org, for approval by the unit leader. The unit leader should then forward the application and supporting materials to the local council office for review and endorsement by the council conservation committee and the Scout executive. Following council approval, the local council forwards the application to the director of Outdoor Programs, Boy Scouts of America. If appropriate, it is submitted to the Hornaday Awards Committee for action. Note these important points. • Be sure the applicant, conservation adviser, and unit leader sign the application. • Check and date all merit badges completed. • Prepare a separate “Project Description” for each project (each from a different project category). Describe each project in detail, including illustrations and/or photographs of the work done. Indicate how you provided leadership for the project and how you used the project to involve and influence others. (See “How Applications Are Judged” at www.scouting.org for details of required documentation.) • Include any newspaper articles, letters of thanks or commendation, and other supporting materials in a well-organized binder.

• Ensure that the application and supporting materials are neat in appearance and reflect the high quality of the applicant’s work. • The conservation adviser and Scout executive should ensure that all parts of the application are filled out thoroughly, accurately, and in detail. Determination by the Hornaday Awards Committee of the applicant’s qualifications is made solely from the information included in the application and supporting materials. • Applicants must be currently registered in the program in which they are applying for the award (i.e., Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, or Venturer) when the application is signed. • Venturer applicants must fulfill additional requirements as specified. (See “How Applications Are Judged” at www.scouting.org for details of required documentation.)

Hornaday Gold Badge
The gold badge is by nomination only and is awarded by the local council to an adult Scouter. The nominee should have demonstrated leadership and a commitment to the education of youth on a council or district level for significant conservation efforts for a period of at least three years. Nominations are made to the local council. The award includes the gold badge. Complete the nomination form, which can be found at www.scouting.org. Submit the completed application, supporting materials—including letter(s) of endorsement— to the local council service center for review and approval by the council conservation committee and the Scout executive. If approved, the council forwards the application to the director of Outdoor Programs, Boy Scouts of America.

Hornaday Gold Medal
The gold medal is by nomination only and is awarded to an adult Scouter who has rendered distinguished and unusual service to natural resource conservation and environmental improvement at the regional, national, or international level over a sustained period (at least 20 years). The award includes the gold medal, a certificate, and an embroidered square knot. Six gold medals may be awarded annually. Nominations must be approved by the Hornaday Awards Committee and by the Conservation Committee of the National Council, Boy Scouts of America. Nominations are accepted from any recognized conservation/environmental protection organization. The application can be found at www.scouting.org.

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Hornaday Gold Certificate
This conservation award is granted to organizations or individuals by the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Nominations are accepted from any recognized conservation or environmental protection organization. The organization or individual should have demonstrated leadership and a commitment to the education of youth on a regional, national, or international level reflecting the natural resource conservation and environmental improvement mission of William T. Hornaday Awards program. The nomination form, which can be found at www.scouting.org, should be completed and forwarded, together with supporting materials, to the director of Outdoor Programs, Boy Scouts of America. Include contact names and phone numbers so the Hornaday Awards Committee can obtain additional information if necessary.

Procedures 1. Using the nomination form, the unit committee chair nominates the unit leader on behalf of the unit committee. For Boy Scout troops, Varsity Scout teams, and Venturer crews, the nomination must include endorsement by the senior patrol leader, team captain, and crew president, respectively. 2. The nomination form must be certified by the unit or district commissioner as complete. 3. The nomination form is submitted to the council for approval by the Scout executive and council commissioner or council president. Upon the completion of the approved nomination form, the council may present the Unit Leader Award of Merit, which includes a certificate, square knot, and special unit leader emblem at an appropriate unit or chartered organization function. Following this presentation, recognition of this achievement may be announced at appropriate district/ council events such as district/council leader recognition dinners, training events, and board meetings. The award may be presented for each program (Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, Venturing) if the individual meets the requirements in the program. Only one knot is worn with the devices of each program in which the award was earned.

Unit Leader Award of Merit
This award is available for Cubmasters, Scoutmasters, Varsity Scout Coaches, Advisors, and Skippers. The National Court of Honor recognizes unit leaders who serve with enthusiasm, wisdom, and understanding of the Scouting program. The chair of the unit committee nominates the unit leader on behalf of the youth and the unit committee. Nomination forms are available from the local council and on www.scouting.org. Requirements 1. Be a currently registered Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, Coach, or Advisor who has served in that position at least 18 continuous months. 2. Be officially trained (BSA required training for the registered position). 3. Have a printed or electronic unit annual program plan and calendar that the unit leader has distributed to each family in the unit. 4. Have a ready replacement recruited for the unit leader position (a unit leader succession plan). 5. Effectively use the advancement plan so that at least 60 percent of youth members in the unit have advanced at least once during the last 12 months. 6. Have a positive relationship with the chartered organization. 7. Project a positive image of Scouting in the community.

Council Achievement Awards
A council may approve special awards for Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Varsity Scouts, and Venturers for outstanding achievements that are not directly related to advancement. These achievements must be in keeping with the spirit and purpose of the Boy Scouts of America. These recommendations must be submitted to the council youth development committee only by the unit committee chair or the unit leader and within six months of the outstanding achievement. Recommendations should be approved by the district chair. The council youth development committee must determine the recognition and the merits of each action.

Religious Emblems
Youth members may earn a religious emblem in their faith. Such an emblem is not a Scouting award. It is conferred on youth members by their religious leaders. Each faith has its own requirements for earning its emblem. A list of the emblems and where to find out about them can be found at www.scouting.org and in the Insignia Guide.

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Special Opportunities
There are a number of additional special opportunities that may be earned by either a unit, adult members, or by youth members. These awards are used by unit leaders to enrich their program and to provide recognition to unit • Boardsailing BSA • BSA Lifeguard • Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award • Den Chief Service Award • Fifty-Miler Award • Firem’n Chit • Historic Trails Award • Interpreter Strip • Kayaking BSA members for their participation. Some of the awards and their requirements can be found at www.scouting.org. See your local council service center for more information about the following special opportunities. • Leave No Trace Awards • Mile Swim BSA • Paul Bunyan Woodsman • Scuba BSA • Snorkeling BSA • Totin’ Chip • Whittling Chip (for Cub Scouts) • World Conservation Award

Note: All items with an asterisk (*) are available at www.scouting.org.

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Cub Scouting Requirements
AcTiviTy bADGEs PREREQUisiTE None None Not applicable AcHiEvEMENTs TRANsiTiON OTHERs Learn and say the Cub Scout Promise and complete the Honesty Character Connection. Say the Law of the Pack and tell what it means. Make the Cub Scout sign and tell what it means. Show the Cub Scout handshake and tell what it means. Say the Cub Scout motto. Give the Cub Scout salute and tell what it means. With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in How to Protect Your Children from Child Abuse: A Parent’s Guide. None

RANK

GRADE OR AGE

TENURE (active participation)

Bobcat

Earn prior to Wolf, Bear, or Webelos badge for boys joining after first grade.

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Five more (8 in all) including Fitness, Readyman, Citizen, Outdoorsman, one from the Mental Skills group, and one from the Technology Group. Webelos None

Show that you know and understand the requirements to be a Boy Scout: Demonstrate the Scout salute, Scout sign, and Scout handshake. Explain when you would use them. Explain the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout motto, and Scout slogan. Explain and agree to follow the Outdoor Code. Complete Character Connection on Faith and one other religious requirement.

Plan and lead a flag ceremony in your den that includes the U.S. flag. Earn the religious emblem of your faith or do two optional (specified) requirements. Point out the three special parts of a Webelos Scout uniform. Tell when to wear the uniform and when not to wear it. Know and explain the meaning of the Webelos badge. Have an adult member of the family read the Webelos Scout Parent Guide. Repeat from memory and explain in your own words the Scout Oath or Promise and the 12 points of the Scout Law. Tell how you have practiced these in your everyday life. Give and explain the Scout motto, slogan, sign, salute, and handshake. Understand the significance of the First Class Scout badge. Describe its parts and tell what each stands for. Tell how a Boy Scout uniform is different from a Webelos Scout uniform. Tie the joining knot (square knot). With your Webelos den, visit at least one Boy Scout troop meeting and one Boy Scout–oriented outdoor activity. After you have completed all five of the above requirements, and after a talk with your Webelos den leader, arrange to visit, with your parent or guardian, a meeting of a Boy Scout troop you think you might like to join. Have a conference with the Scoutmaster. Complete the Honesty Character Connection. Participate in a Webelos overnighter or day hike.

Arrow of Light

Fifth grade

6 months since completing the fourth grade (or becoming 10)

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Boy Scouting Requirements
scOUT sPiRiT Understand and intend to live by the Scout Oath or Promise and Scout Law; Scout motto; Scout slogan; and Outdoor Code. Know the Scout salute and handclasp and when to use them. Understand the significance of the Scout badge. Repeat from memory the Scout Oath or Promise and the Scout Law. Explain the meaning of each point of the Law in your own words. Demonstrate that you have practiced these ideals in your everyday life. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your everyday life. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your everyday life. Six, including any 4 from the required list for Eagle. Five more (11 in all), including any 3 more (7 in all) from the required list for Eagle. Ten more (21 in all), including 5 more from the required list for Eagle (12 in all), with at least 1 in each category. Five more beyond those required for Eagle or last Palm. (Merit badges earned any time since becoming a Boy Scout may be used for this requirement.) Projects totaling at least 6 hours of work approved by the Scoutmaster. Projects totaling at least 6 hours of work approved by the Scoutmaster. None None None Participate in an approved service project (minimum of 1 hour). Not applicable None None Not applicable None None Not applicable MERiT bADGEs sERvicE POsiTiONs OF REsPONsibiLiTy bOARD OF REviEW

RANK

TENURE

Boy Scout (joining)

Have completed fifth grade and be at least 10 years old, or be 11, or have earned the Arrow of Light Award and be at least 10 years old, but be younger than 18.

Tenderfoot

None

Troop or team committee

Second Class

None

Troop or team committee

First Class

None

Not applicable

Troop or team committee

Star

4 months as a First Class Scout

Troop, team, or crew committee

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Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your everyday life. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your everyday life. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your everyday life. None

Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath (Promise) and Scout Law in your everyday life.

Serve actively for 4 months in an approved position after earning First Class rank. Serve actively for 6 months in an approved position after earning Star rank. Serve actively for 6 months in an approved position after earning Life rank. Satisfactory effort at demonstrating leadership

Life

6 months as a Star Scout

Troop, team, or crew committee

Eagle

6 months as a Life Scout

Plan, develop and give leadership to a significant project. The idea must get proper approvals before work starts.

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Ordinary rank achieved; must possess thorough knowledge of contents of seamanship and boating safety section of Sea Scout Manual, and must not have reached their 18th birthday by the date of the course; must have the ship Skipper’s recommendation.